REPUBLICAN WHIP, U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

This information has been provided by www.ericcantor.com.

Eric Cantor is a results-oriented leader in Congress dedicated to helping solve problems for America's families. In 2009, Eric was elected by his colleagues in the House to serve as the Republican Whip for the 111th Congress.

Eric has served in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Virginia's 7th District, since 2001.

Since entering Congress, Cantor has earned a reputation as a consensus-builder respected on both sides of the aisle. The Weekly Standard recently featured him as an emerging leader among an impressive group of "Young Guns of the House GOP."

Cantor sits on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, where he is a proven advocate for America's working families. He was the chief sponsor of a 2006 bill to make permanent the slashed individual income tax rates for capital gains and dividends, rewarding entrepreneurs, retirees and investors with the ability to create more opportunity for their families and jobs for our communities. He also quickly earned a reputation as an innovator in health care, fighting for greater choice for families. He authored the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006, which made it easier for families to save for their health care needs through Health Savings Accounts. The legislation became law in late 2006.

As Chairman of the Congressional Task Force on Terrorism and Unconventional Warfare, Cantor remains focused on promoting a strong national defense, providing more resources for our nation's military and intelligence communities.

Eric is a lifelong resident of the Richmond area, where he got his start in politics as a driver for his predecessor Congressman Tom Bliley's re-election campaign.

Eric received his law degree from The College of William and Mary and his master's degree from Columbia University in New York.

While in New York, Eric met his wife Diana and brought her back to Virginia where they are currently raising three children. Evan is currently in his first year at The University of Virginia; Jenna and Michael both attend Henrico County Public Schools.