Raúl Ruiz’s journey to the U.S. House of Representatives begins with a story familiar to many young people in foster and kinship care, losing a parent and being raised by extended family.

Early Life in Kinship Care

Born in Zacatecas, Mexico, in 1972, Raúl lost his biological mother shortly after his birth. At just a few months old, he was raised and then adopted by his paternal aunt in Coachella, California. Growing up in a farmworker family, he saw firsthand the struggles of poverty and limited access to opportunity. Yet his aunt’s care and encouragement gave him stability and the belief that education could open doors.

Education Against the Odds

Ruiz was determined to succeed. He became the first in his family to attend college, graduating from UCLA in 1994. But he didn’t stop there. He earned not just one, but three graduate degrees from Harvard University, a Medical Doctorate, a Master’s in Public Policy, and a Master’s in Public Health.

These achievements were not easy. Ruiz often talks about the barriers Latino and low-income youth face: financial challenges, stereotypes, and lack of mentors. His story shows that persistence and community support can make a huge difference.

Career of Service

As a physician, Ruiz used his skills to serve people in need, from rural communities in California to disaster zones like Haiti after the devastating 2010 earthquake. His focus has always been on service before self, a value he traces back to his upbringing and his aunt’s example of resilience.

In 2012, voters in California’s 36th District elected him to Congress. Since then, Ruiz has been a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and a strong supporter of immigrant youth, healthcare access, and policies that lift up vulnerable families.

Advocating for Youth and Families

In Congress, Ruiz has been a consistent voice for Dreamers and young immigrants, saying they “only know America as their home.” He has also spoken out for foster and kinship youth, connecting his own childhood experience to today’s need for supportive families and opportunities.

From criticizing discrimination against refugees, to defending DACA, to calling for comprehensive immigration reform, Ruiz has used his platform to amplify the voices of those who are often unheard.

His Story's Impact

Losing his mother could have defined his future in an only negative way, but being raised by his aunt gave him love, stability, and hope. From there, he worked hard, pursued education, and chose a career dedicated to giving back.