Val Demings
U.S. Representative for Florida
Valdez Venita Butler Demings was born in March 1957 in Jacksonville, Florida. She graduated from Florida State University with a degree in criminology. Years later, she earned a master’s degree in public administration at Webster University, Orlando. After graduating from Florida State, Demings worked as a state social worker in Jacksonville for 18 months.
She joined the Orlando Police Department, where her first job was on patrol on the city’s west side. Twenty-four years later, she was appointed as Chief of the Orlando Police Department, the first woman to lead the force. She resigned three years later to run for the U.S. House of Representatives for Florida. She lost her initial race, thought about running for Mayor of Orange County, then dropped out of that and returned to a run for the House. She assumed office in January 2017.
She is married to Jerry Demmings, also in law enforcement, and the two met while on patrol. They have three children. She lists her faith as Christian.
In the News…
The Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe was pressed by members of the House on whether any hostile foreign actors were attempting to take advantage of recent U.S. protests to spread misinformation.
Representative Val Demings of Florida was joined by Representative Raja Krishnamoothi of Illinois in pointing to specific concerns that foreign actors would seek to exploit increased racial tensions in the United States following protests over the death of George Floyd.
“I am writing you today to request information regarding your plans to ensure that foreign actors do not exploit the current heightened tensions in America by spreading misinformation, inciting violence, or utilize any other means to support a foreign agenda not in the best interests of American national security, public health, and safety,” they wrote.
Both members serve on the House Intelligence Committee.
Contact this Leader…
Did you pray for Representative Demings today? You can let her know at:
The Honorable Val Demings
Representative for Florida
217 Canon House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
