Elissa Slotkin, a Democratic Senator from Michigan, is among the seven Democratic Senators who voted for Kristi Noem. Known for her pragmatic approach and deep expertise in national security, Slotkin has emerged as a prominent figure in American politics. From her roots on a Michigan farm to serving as a CIA analyst and now a U.S. Senator, Slotkin’s career reflects a commitment to bipartisanship and public service.
So, who is Elissa Slotkin? Here’s a closer look at her life, career, and what makes her a unique voice in the Senate.
Who Is Elissa Slotkin?
Elissa Slotkin is an American politician and former intelligence official who currently serves as a Democratic U.S. Representative for Michigan’s 7th Congressional District (previously Michigan’s 8th District prior to redistricting). Known for her expertise in national security and bipartisan approach to policymaking, Slotkin has become a prominent voice in Congress.
Slotkin grew up on her family’s farm in Holly, Michigan, and learned the value of hard work and resilience early in life. She attended Cornell University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Rural Sociology, and later received a master’s degree from Columbia University in International Affairs.
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Elissa Slotkin’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Elissa Blair Slotkin |
| Date of Birth | July 10, 1976 |
| Place of Birth | New York City, New York, USA |
| Hometown | Holly, Michigan |
| Age | 48 (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Education | – B.S. in Rural Sociology, Cornell University |
| – M.A. in International Affairs, Columbia University | |
| Profession | Politician, Former CIA Analyst |
| Political Party | Democratic Party |
| Current Role | U.S. Representative for Michigan’s 7th District |
| Previous Roles | – Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs |
| – CIA Analyst (Middle Eastern Affairs) | |
| Spouse | Dave Moore (Retired U.S. Army Colonel) |
| Residence | Holly, Michigan |
| Committee Assignments | – House Armed Services Committee |
| – House Homeland Security Committee | |
| Key Policy Focus | – National Security |
| – Healthcare Reform | |
| – Veterans and Military Families | |
| – Bipartisan Legislation | |
| Major Achievements | – Flipping a historically Republican district (2018) |
| – National security expertise from CIA and Defense Department roles | |
| – Announced candidacy for Michigan’s U.S. Senate seat (2024) | |
| Languages | English, Arabic |
| Notable Family Ties | Family owned Hygrade Meat Company (Ball Park Frank inventor) |
| Religion | Jewish |
| Interesting Fact | Completed three tours in Iraq as a CIA Analyst |
| Social Media | – Twitter: @ElissaSlotkin |
| – Instagram: @ElissaSlotkin |
Career
Slotkin began her career in public service by joining the CIA after the 9/11 attacks, where she specialized in Middle Eastern affairs. She later served in Iraq as a CIA analyst and worked alongside the military during three tours of duty.
Slotkin held several senior positions in the Defense Department under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, including as Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs.
Her work focused on counterterrorism, regional security, and international coalition-building. Her background gives her unique insights into global security challenges.
Political Career
- Elected to Congress: Slotkin was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2018, flipping a historically Republican district and contributing to the Democratic Party’s House majority.
- Re-Election: She has since been re-elected and now represents Michigan’s 7th District after redistricting.
- Committees: Slotkin serves on key committees, including the House Armed Services Committee and the House Homeland Security Committee, where she focuses on national security and veterans’ issues.
2024 Senate Campaign
In February 2023, Slotkin announced her candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat in Michigan, following the retirement announcement of Senator Debbie Stabenow. Her Senate run highlights her increasing prominence in the Democratic Party.
Policy Focus
- National Security: Leveraging her intelligence background, Slotkin is a strong advocate for policies that strengthen America’s defense and homeland security.
- Healthcare: Slotkin has been outspoken about the need for affordable healthcare, including protecting and expanding the Affordable Care Act.
- Veterans and Military Families: She is committed to supporting veterans and their families, reflecting her experience working alongside military personnel in Iraq.
- Bipartisanship: Slotkin is known for working across party lines to address pressing issues, including economic development and infrastructure.
Notable Achievements
- Flipping a Red District: Slotkin made headlines by winning in a traditionally Republican district, showcasing her ability to connect with voters across political lines.
- National Security Expertise: She is one of the few members of Congress with extensive experience in intelligence and defense, making her a go-to voice on security issues.
- Bipartisan Reputation: Slotkin has co-sponsored bipartisan legislation and often emphasizes finding common ground.
Elissa Slotkin’s Personal Life
Elissa Slotkin was married to Dave Moore, a retired U.S. Army colonel and Apache helicopter pilot. Their shared experiences in national security and military life provided a strong foundation for their relationship. Moore’s military service, like Slotkin’s intelligence career, reflects their mutual commitment to serving the country. Although they divorced in 2023, their shared dedication to public service remains a cornerstone of Slotkin’s story.
Slotkin continues to live on her family farm in Holly, Michigan, a home that embodies her connection to her roots. The farm serves as both a residence and a symbol of her Michigan upbringing. Growing up, Slotkin’s family instilled in her the values of hard work and resilience, which she credits as the driving forces behind her career in public service.
Her Michigan heritage is further reflected in her family’s entrepreneurial legacy. Slotkin’s family owned the Hygrade Meat Company, a business best known for inventing the Ball Park Frank, an American staple. This connection to Michigan’s industrial and cultural history has been a point of pride for Slotkin, who often speaks about her family’s contributions to the state’s economy and identity.
Interesting Facts
- Slotkin speaks Arabic and has a deep understanding of Middle Eastern politics.
- She worked in Iraq alongside both Democratic and Republican administrations, emphasizing her nonpartisan approach to national security.
- Her campaign ads often focus on her pragmatic problem-solving and dedication to Michigan’s working families.
Elissa Slotkin’s blend of intelligence expertise, military service, and legislative experience makes her a unique figure in American politics. She continues to focus on bridging divides, addressing critical security issues, and advocating for Michigan families.
