Mel Levine (born 1942)

Congressman (1982–1992)

What is Mel Levine (born 1942) known for?

Meldon Edises Levine, popularly known as Mel Levine, is an esteemed figure originating from Los Angeles, California. He was born on June 7, 1943, and is notable for his significant contributions in the fields of law and politics. He attended Beverly Hills High School, graduating in 1960 before proceeding for further studies.

Levine has an impressive educational background. He was student body president and valedictorian at the University of California, Berkeley. He later obtained his MPA from Princeton University in 1966 and a JD from Harvard University in 1969. He was admitted to the California bar in 1970.

In the early stages of his career, after being admitted to the California bar in 1970, Levine began a private law practice. He served as a legislative assistant to U.S. Senator John V. Tunney from 1971 to 1973 before venturing into politics. His political career included service in the California State Assembly from 1977 to 1982, before he moved to the national arena. Levine served as a U.S. Congressman from California in the House of Representatives for ten years, from 1983 to 1993.

During his tenure in Congress, Levine supported significant legislation, including the 1991 Gulf War Authorization Act. Despite his successful stint in Congress, his attempt to secure a U.S. Senate seat in 1992 was unsuccessful, losing in the Democratic primary to Barbara Boxer.

Post his congressional service, Levine continued to serve the public in various capacities. In 2013, he was appointed by Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti to the Board of Water and Power Commissioners, where he now serves as president. Apart from public service, Levine has also made a name for himself in the legal profession. He currently partners in the law firm Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher and sits on the board of directors of the Pacific Council on International Policy.

On a personal note, Levine is married to New Yorker journalist Connie Bruck. He has three children - Adam, Jake, and Cara - from a previous marriage. He currently resides in Pacific Palisades, California.

You can learn more about Mel Levine here and about his birthplace, Los Angeles, California here.