_118th_Congress_1-e1736363371125-150x150.jpg "The Nation's Leaders from Coast to Coast")
_118th_Congress_1-240x300.jpg)
Early Life and Education
Raul Ruiz was born on August 25, 1972, in Zacatecas, Mexico, but was raised in Coachella, California, after his family immigrated to the United States. Growing up in a working-class family, Ruiz was instilled with a strong sense of community service and the value of education. He attended Coachella Valley High School, where he excelled academically and was involved in various extracurricular activities. His commitment to education continued as he pursued higher learning, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Ruiz’s academic journey did not stop there; he went on to obtain his medical degree from Harvard Medical School, where he also completed his residency in emergency medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Medical Career
After completing his medical training, Dr. Raul Ruiz returned to the Coachella Valley to serve the community that had shaped his early years. He worked as an emergency room physician at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage, California. His medical practice focused on providing care to underserved populations, particularly migrant farmworkers, which reflected his deep-rooted commitment to public health and community welfare. His work in the emergency room not only honed his medical skills but also exposed him to the broader socio-economic issues affecting health care access and quality for many in his district.
Political Career
Raul Ruiz’s transition into politics was driven by his desire to address these systemic issues on a larger scale. In 2012, he ran for the U.S. House of Representatives from California’s 36th congressional district, which was later renumbered as the 25th district due to redistricting. His campaign focused on health care reform, education, and economic opportunities, resonating with many in his community. Ruiz won the election, defeating the incumbent, thereby becoming the first Latino to represent the Coachella Valley in Congress. Since then, he has been re-elected multiple times, showcasing his continued support from constituents.
Legislative Focus
In Congress, Representative Ruiz has been a vocal advocate for health care reform, particularly emphasizing the Affordable Care Act and its benefits for his constituents. He has worked on legislation aimed at improving health care access, reducing costs, and enhancing the quality of care. Additionally, Ruiz has been involved in environmental issues, pushing for policies that address climate change and protect natural resources in his district, which includes parts of the Mojave Desert. His legislative efforts also extend to education, where he supports initiatives to increase funding for schools and programs that aid in student success.
Personal Life
Raul Ruiz is married to Monica Rustgi, a fellow physician, and they have two children. His personal life is marked by a balance between his demanding career in politics and his commitment to family. Ruiz often speaks about the importance of family values and community involvement, themes that are central to his political philosophy and public service. His background as a physician continues to influence his approach to policy-making, ensuring that health care remains at the forefront of his legislative agenda.
Join us at Pointed Words or Representative Raul Ruiz at House.gov