Congressman Cohen Named One of The Forward's 50 Most Influential People of the Year

From The Forward:

“It was an extraordinary year for Representative Steve Cohen, the freshman congressman from Tennessee. While his colleagues in the class of 2006 were trying to make their voices heard, Cohen was taking on the toughest issues for a politician: race and religion. Representing Tennessee's Ninth District, which is 60% African-American, Cohen was well aware of the race issue early in his political career … When he arrived in Washington, Cohen was successful in passing a resolution apologizing for slavery, the first statement of its kind from a federal branch of government. But in his home district, this was not enough. In the 2008 primary race, his rival Nikki Tinker, who is African-American, ran ads juxtaposing Cohen with Klansmen and criticizing him for visiting "our churches" while opposing prayer in schools. He won the primary by a 4-to-1 margin. Cohen, 59, is a fourth-generation Tennessean with a distinct Southern accent and a lively sense of humor. Although he comes from a largely conservative state, he has liberal views on most social issues. He was also among the first politicians to be endorsed by the dovish JStreetPAC.”

Congressman Cohen said, “I’m very grateful for this recognition by The Forward. This esteemed publication is highly regarded across the country and I am proud to be included among their 50 most influential people.”

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Contact:
Marilyn Dillihay, Press Secretary, 202-225-3265
Charlie Gerber, Communications Assistant, 202-225-3265