The Hill’s 2012 New Members Guide

Rep.-elect Janice Hahn (D-Calif.-44)

DATE OF BIRTH: March 30, 1952

BIRTHPLACE: Los Angeles

RESIDENCE: Los Angeles

OCCUPATION: House of Representatives 

EDUCATION: B.S., Abilene Christian University 

PREVIOUS OFFICE HELD: House of Representatives (2011-present); Los Angeles City Council (2001-2011)

FAMILY: Three children 

Janice Hahn was the only candidate this cycle who had experience running in the new California election format, giving her the edge in a Democratic member vs. member district. 

Hahn was first elected to the House in a 2011 special election to replace former Rep. Jane Harman (D) — under the new system, the top two vote-getters in the primary advance to the general, regardless of party. 

In 2011, she beat out a Tea Party Republican in the general. But this year, two Democratic incumbents made the cut. 

Hahn defeated fellow Democratic Rep. Laura Richardson, who fought an ethics battle and struggled with fundraising.  

In Congress, Hahn sits on the Homeland Security Committee and the Small Business Committee. She comes from political pedigree; her father served as a Los Angeles county supervisor for years and her brother is the former mayor.