Charlie's Biography
In his first term in Congress, Charlie Wilson has championed the causes that matter most to the people of Ohio’s Sixth Congressional District. A native son of Eastern Ohio, Charlie understands the challenges facing our region as well as its potential to help lead the nation in energy production. Since taking office in 2007, Charlie Wilson's top priorities in Congress have been creating jobs and finding alternative energy opportunities in Eastern Ohio.
Charlie is a proven advocate for the people of Eastern Ohio. In 2007, he secured more than $6 million in federal funding for the 6th district. This money funded important projects including airport improvements, small business incubators, and funding for police departments. Charlie is a firm believer in the need to wisely invest tax dollars in our future and to invest in those projects that will spur economic development and public safety throughout the district.
As a member of the House Committee on Science and Technology, Charlie is at the forefront of efforts to use American coal to meet American energy needs. By spending more research dollars and finding ways to burn coal more cleanly, Charlie believes that Eastern Ohio miners and plant workers can provide America with the power it needs while decreasing our dependence on foreign energy sources.
Charlie is also a strong supporter of innovative energy technologies, like those that will be employed at the coal-to-liquid plant proposed for Wellsville, Ohio. Charlie is working hard to bring this plant from concept to construction to completion, not only for the thousands of jobs that it will create, but because it will be an important first step in lessening our dependence on foreign oil.
As a member of the House Committee on Financial Services, Charlie is playing a leading role in addressing America's financial crisis. Charlie introduced legislation that cracked down on corrupt elements within the home loan industry in an effort to help Americans hold onto their homes during the nation's growing foreclosure epidemic.
Born in Dillonvale, Ohio, Charlie is a proud small businessman. The lessons he learned growing up, and the people he employed as the owner and president of Wilson Funeral Homes and Wilson Furniture Store formed the no-nonsense, common sense judgment Charlie brought with him to Washington. Charlie understands the unique role that small, family-run businesses play in creating jobs and sustaining economic growth. Toward that end, Charlie's sons now carry on the family businesses, which have operated in their communities for over 100 years.
Charlie was educated at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. While still in college, Charlie worked a summer job on the assembly line at an auto plant, learning first hand how important a strong labor movement and strong work ethic are for America. Charlie firmly believes in a fair day’s pay for a hard day’s work, and he brings the lessons learned on the assembly line with him every day, to every vote, on the House floor.
Before being elected to Congress, Charlie enjoyed a distinguished record of public service. In 1996, Charlie was elected to the Ohio House of Representatives, where he served until 2004, when he was elected to the Ohio Senate. After two constructive years in the Ohio Senate, Charlie won his historic write-in campaign in 2006, filling the congressional seat vacated by Ohio Governor Ted Strickland.
Charlie is the proud father of four sons and grandfather of nine. He is honored to represent Ohio’s Sixth Congressional District in Congress and looks forward to continuing to serve the people of Eastern Ohio.