Darren Soto was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2016 to represent Florida’s 9thCongressional District, which includes all of Osceola and parts of Orange and Polk Counties.
Born to a Puerto Rican father and Italian-American mother, Darren’s upbringing influenced his passion for public service and helping those in need. After learning the values of hard work from his parents, Darren graduated from Rutgers University and the George Washington University School of Law.
Upon graduation, Darren opened his own practice in Central Florida, where he practiced family law, civil litigation, and real estate law.
The United States is a nation of immigrants and a nation of laws. Our immigrants are working; our laws are not. Darren is working to fix them.
Many of our nation’s founders were immigrants, and each generation has benefitted from immigrants who contribute to our economy and society. For instance, over 40 percent of Fortune 500 companies were founded by immigrants or their children, creating millions of jobs and untold prosperity. We only hurt ourselves when we turn away budding job creators, doctors who are willing to work in rural and underserved communities, and others who are contributing to our country. Pushing people into the shadows, limits their contributions to our economy and tax base, makes it more difficult for them to report crimes, and creates uncertainty for their families.
“I believe the answer is comprehensive immigration reform and recognizing the contributions of the immigrants in our communities, and not trying to attack and deport people.” – Congressman Soto
Darren is fighting to empower immigrants to contribute to our community and earn the American Dream. As a State Senator, he passed legislation to make college more affordable for DREAMers – young people brought to this country through no fault of their own – and to allow them to practice law in Florida.
As a Member of Congress, Darren’s immigration priorities include: