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{{short description|U.S. Representative from Florida}}
{{Short description|American politician & lawyer (born 1963)}}
{{Redirect|Bilirakis|his father, the politician|Michael Bilirakis|the poker player|Steve Billirakis}}
{{Infobox officeholder
{{Infobox officeholder
| name = Gus Bilirakis
| name = Gus Bilirakis
| image = Gus Bilirakis, official 110th Congress photo 2.jpg
| image = Gus Bilirakis, official portrait, 118th Congress (cropped).jpg
| caption = Official portrait, 2023
| office1 = Member of the<br />[[United States House of Representatives|U.S. House of Representatives]]<br />from [[Florida]]
| office1 = Member of the<br />[[United States House of Representatives|U.S. House of Representatives]]<br />from [[Florida]]
| constituency1 = [[Florida's 9th congressional district|9th district]] {{nowrap|(2007–2013)}}<br />[[Florida's 12th congressional district|12th district]] {{nowrap|(2013–present)}}
| constituency1 = [[Florida's 9th congressional district|9th district]] {{nowrap|(2007–2013)}}<br />[[Florida's 12th congressional district|12th district]] {{nowrap|(2013–present)}}
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| children = 4
| children = 4
| education = [[University of Florida]] ([[Bachelor of Arts|BA]])<br />[[Stetson University]] ([[Juris Doctor|JD]])
| education = [[University of Florida]] ([[Bachelor of Arts|BA]])<br />[[Stetson University]] ([[Juris Doctor|JD]])
| website = {{URL|https://bilirakis.house.gov/|House website}}
| father = [[Michael Bilirakis]]
| father = [[Michael Bilirakis]]
| module = {{Listen|pos=center|embed=yes|filename=Rep. Gus Bilirakis on Greece's Role in Aiding Syrian Refugees.ogg|title=Gus Bilirakis's voice|type=speech|description=Gus Bilirakis on Greece's role in aiding [[Refugees of the Syrian civil war|Syrian refugees]]<br/>Recorded September 30, 2016}}
}}
}}
'''Gus Michael Bilirakis''' ({{IPAc-en|,|b|ɪ|l|ɪ|'|r|ae|k|ɪ|s}} {{Respell|BILL|i|RACK|iss}}; born February 8, 1963) is an American lawyer and politician serving as the [[United States House of Representatives|U.S. Representative]] for {{ushr|Florida|12|}} since 2013. A member of the [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican Party]], he first entered Congress in 2007, where he succeeded his father [[Michael Bilirakis]], representing [[Florida's 9th congressional district]] until redistricting. His district includes much of the northern portion of the [[Tampa Bay area]]. Bilirakis previously served as the [[Florida House of Representatives|Florida State Representative]] for the 48th district from 1998 to 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Representatives/details.aspx?MemberId=4169&SessionId=42|title=Florida House of Representatives – Gus&nbsp;Michael&nbsp;Bilirakis&nbsp;- 2014 – 2016 { Crisafulli }|work=myfloridahouse.gov|access-date=19 September 2015}}</ref>
'''Gus Michael Bilirakis''' ({{IPAc-en|,|b|ɪ|l|ɪ|'|r|ae|k|ɪ|s}} {{Respell|BILL|ih|RACK|iss}}; born February 8, 1963) is an American lawyer and politician serving as the [[United States House of Representatives|U.S. representative]] for {{ushr|Florida|12|}} since 2013. A member of the [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican Party]], he first entered Congress in 2007, where he succeeded his father [[Michael Bilirakis]], representing [[Florida's 9th congressional district]] until redistricting. His district includes much of the northern portion of the [[Tampa Bay area]]. Bilirakis previously served as the [[Florida House of Representatives|Florida state representative]] for the 48th district from 1998 to 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Representatives/details.aspx?MemberId=4169&SessionId=42|title=Florida House of Representatives – Gus&nbsp;Michael&nbsp;Bilirakis&nbsp;- 2014 – 2016 { Crisafulli }|work=myfloridahouse.gov|access-date=19 September 2015}}</ref>


== Early life and education ==
==Early life and education==
Bilirakis was born in [[Gainesville, Florida]], and grew up in [[Tarpon Springs, Florida]], the son of Evelyn (née Miaoulis) and [[Michael Bilirakis]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~battle/reps/bilirakis.htm|title=Ancestry® {{!}} Genealogy, Family Trees & Family History Records|website=freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com|language=en-US|access-date=2018-07-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160313025006/http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~battle/reps/bilirakis.htm|archive-date=2016-03-13|url-status=dead}}</ref> He lives in [[Palm Harbor, Florida|Palm Harbor]] and is the grandson of [[Greeks|Greek]] immigrants. His grandfather owned a local bakery where Bilirakis worked from a young age. He attended Tampa Bay area public schools and continued to work in his grandfather's bakery while growing up.
Bilirakis was born in [[Gainesville, Florida]], and grew up in [[Tarpon Springs, Florida]], the son of Evelyn (née Miaoulis) and [[Michael Bilirakis]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~battle/reps/bilirakis.htm|title=Ancestry® {{!}} Genealogy, Family Trees & Family History Records|website=freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com|language=en-US|access-date=2018-07-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160313025006/http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~battle/reps/bilirakis.htm|archive-date=2016-03-13|url-status=dead}}</ref> He lives in [[Palm Harbor, Florida|Palm Harbor]] and is the grandson of [[Greeks|Greek]] immigrants. His grandfather owned a local bakery where Bilirakis worked from a young age.


Bilirakis graduated from [[Tarpon Springs High School]] and [[St. Petersburg Junior College]]. He then attended the [[University of Florida]], where he graduated in 1986 with a bachelor's degree in political science. He received his [[Juris Doctor|J.D.]] degree from the [[Stetson University College of Law]] in 1989. He was an intern for U.S. President [[Ronald Reagan]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Gus Michael Bilirakis |url=https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Representatives/details.aspx?MemberId=4169 |website=Florida House of Representatives |access-date=26 March 2021}}</ref>
Bilirakis graduated from [[Tarpon Springs High School]] and [[St. Petersburg Junior College]]. He then attended the [[University of Florida]], where he graduated in 1986 with a bachelor's degree in political science. He received his [[Juris Doctor|J.D.]] degree from the [[Stetson University College of Law]] in 1989. He was an intern for U.S. President [[Ronald Reagan]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Gus Michael Bilirakis |url=https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Representatives/details.aspx?MemberId=4169 |website=Florida House of Representatives |access-date=26 March 2021}}</ref>


== Career ==
==Career==
Bilirakis operates a [[Tampa Bay area]] law practice, the Bilirakis Law Group, specializing in [[Uniform Probate Code|probate]] and [[estate planning]], which he took over from his father, Michael Bilirakis. His father served in Congress from 1983 to 2007, and Gus helped run his campaigns.
Bilirakis operated a law practice, the Bilirakis Law Group, specializing in [[Uniform Probate Code|probate]] and [[estate planning]], which he took over from his father, Michael Bilirakis. His father served in Congress from 1983 to 2007, and Gus helped run his campaigns.


===Florida legislature===
===Florida legislature===


====Tenure====
====Tenure====
Bilirakis was first elected to the [[Florida House of Representatives]] in 1998 when he won the District 48 seat held for 10 years by Representative Sandy Safley, R-Clearwater, who decided not to run again. This district covers most of north [[Pinellas County, Florida|Pinellas County]], part of [[Pasco County, Florida|Pasco County]], and part of [[Hillsborough County, Florida|Hillsborough County]].
Bilirakis was first elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1998 when he won the District 48 seat held for 10 years by Representative Sandy Safley, R-Clearwater, who decided not to run again. This district covers most of north Pinellas County, part of Pasco County, and part of Hillsborough County.


====Committees====
====Committees====
During his tenure in [[Tallahassee, Florida|Tallahassee]] (1998–2006), he chaired several prominent panels including Crime Prevention, Public Safety Appropriations, and the Economic Development, Trade, & Banking Committee.
During his tenure in [[Tallahassee, Florida|Tallahassee]] (1998–2006), he chaired several panels including Crime Prevention, Public Safety Appropriations, and the Economic Development, Trade, & Banking Committee.{{citation needed|date=December 2021}}


==U.S. House of Representatives==
==U.S. House of Representatives==
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===Elections===
===Elections===
{{Main|2012 United States House of Representatives elections in Florida#District 12}}
{{Main|2012 United States House of Representatives elections in Florida#District 12}}
[[File:Gus Bilirakis, official 110th Congress photo 2.jpg|thumb|right|Bilirakis in 2007, during his freshman Congressional term]]
⚫
In 2006, Michael Bilirakis announced his retirement after 24 years in Congress, and Gus Bilirakis entered the race to succeed his father in what was then the 9th District. He defeated Hillsborough County Commissioner Phyllis Busansky in the general election with 55% of the vote to become the district's second representative. He has been reelected three more times without substantive opposition.


===Committee assignments===
⚫
In 2006, Michael Bilirakis announced his retirement after 24 years in Congress, and Gus Bilirakis immediately jumped into the race to succeed his father in what was then the 9th District. He defeated Hillsborough County Commissioner Phyllis Busansky in the general election with 55 percent of the vote to become the district's second representative. He has been reelected three more times without substantive opposition.

=== Committee assignments<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ballotpedia.org/Gus_Bilirakis|title=Gus Bilirakis|website=Ballotpedia}}</ref> ===
[[File:Nicole Johnson with Congressman Gus Bilirakis.jpg|thumb|Gus Bilirakis meets with Diabetes advocate and former Miss America [[Nicole Johnson (Miss America)|Nicole Johnson]]]]
[[File:Nicole Johnson with Congressman Gus Bilirakis.jpg|thumb|Gus Bilirakis meets with Diabetes advocate and former Miss America [[Nicole Johnson (Miss America)|Nicole Johnson]]]]
For the [[118th United States Congress|118th Congress]]:<ref>{{cite web |title=Gus M. Bilirakis |url=https://clerk.house.gov/members/B001257 |publisher=Clerk of the United States House of Representatives |access-date=3 May 2023}}</ref>

* [[United States House Committee on Energy and Commerce|Committee on Energy and Commerce]] (2013–present)
* [[United States House Committee on Energy and Commerce|Committee on Energy and Commerce]]
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** [[United States House Energy Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade|Subcommittee on Digital Commerce and Consumer Protection]]
** [[United States House Energy Subcommittee on Communications and Technology|Subcommittee on Communications and Technology]]
** [[United States House Energy Subcommittee on Communications and Technology|Subcommittee on Communications and Technology]]
** [[United States House Energy Subcommittee on Health|Subcommittee on Health]]
⚫
** [[United States House Energy Subcommittee on Innovation, Data, and Commerce|Subcommittee on Innovation, Data, and Commerce]] (Chairman)


=== Caucus membership ===
===Caucus membership===


Bilirakis and Representative [[Ted Deutch]] formed the Congressional Hellenic-Israeli Alliance in February 2013.<ref>{{cite web |title=Congressional Hellenic Israel Alliance Caucus |url=http://www.americanhellenic.org/congressional-hellenic-israel-alliance-caucus/ |website=American Hellenic Council |access-date=26 March 2021}}</ref>
Bilirakis and Representative [[Ted Deutch]] formed the Congressional Hellenic-Israeli Alliance in February 2013.<ref>{{cite web |title=Congressional Hellenic Israel Alliance Caucus |url=http://www.americanhellenic.org/congressional-hellenic-israel-alliance-caucus/ |website=American Hellenic Council |access-date=26 March 2021}}</ref>


* [[Republican Study Committee]]<ref>{{Cite web|date=2017-12-06|title=Membership|url=https://rsc-banks.house.gov/about/membership|access-date=2021-03-28|website=Republican Study Committee|language=en}}</ref>
* [[Republican Study Committee]]<ref>{{Cite web|date=2017-12-06|title=Membership|url=https://rsc-banks.house.gov/about/membership|access-date=2021-03-28|website=Republican Study Committee|language=en}}</ref>
* Co-chair of [https://diabetescaucus-degette.house.gov/ Congressional Diabetes Caucus]
* [[Congressional Coalition on Adoption]]<ref>{{Cite web|title=Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute|url=https://www.ccainstitute.org|language=en}}</ref>


===Party leadership===
===Tenure===
Bilirakis is a member of the Republican Party's Whip Team and is Chair of the Veterans’ Affairs Task Force for the Republican Policy Committee. Additionally, Bilirakis serves as a Co-Chair of the Congressional Military Veterans Caucus and the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues.
Bilirakis is a member of the Republican Party's Whip Team and is Chair of the Veterans’ Affairs Task Force for the Republican Policy Committee. Additionally, Bilirakis serves as a co-chair of the Congressional Military Veterans Caucus and the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues.


⚫
He is a signer of the Taxpayer Protection Pledge<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.atr.org/current-taxpayer-protection-pledge-signers-th-a2851|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725024055/http://www.atr.org/current-taxpayer-protection-pledge-signers-th-a2851|title=Current Taxpayer Protection Pledge Signers|archivedate=July 25, 2011}}</ref> and a pledge sponsored by [[Americans for Prosperity]] promising to vote against any climate change legislation that would raise taxes.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://americansforprosperity.org/files/Bilirakis_Gus.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2014-10-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120604174223/http://www.americansforprosperity.org/files/Bilirakis_Gus.pdf |archive-date=2012-06-04 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
⚫
===Platform===
Bilirakis has led efforts to enhance the United States' visa screening capabilities and has played a key role in efforts to strengthen America's borders; most notably passing legislation to enhance the collection of biometric information from migrants captured at sea who are seeking illegal entry to the United States. He successfully placed legislative initiatives in the 9/11 recommendations bill that was signed into law to increase America's rail and public transportation security.

Bilirakis is also a leading sponsor of legislation to create a nationwide [[Silver Alert]] program. He is a signer of the Taxpayer Protection Pledge.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.atr.org/current-taxpayer-protection-pledge-signers-th-a2851|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725024055/http://www.atr.org/current-taxpayer-protection-pledge-signers-th-a2851|title=Current Taxpayer Protection Pledge Signers|archivedate=July 25, 2011}}</ref>

⚫
In 2010 Bilirakis signed a pledge sponsored by [[Americans for Prosperity]] promising to vote against any climate change legislation that would raise taxes.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://americansforprosperity.org/files/Bilirakis_Gus.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2014-10-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120604174223/http://www.americansforprosperity.org/files/Bilirakis_Gus.pdf |archive-date=2012-06-04 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


On September 29, 2008, Bilirakis voted against the [[Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008]].<ref name="Bailout Roll Call">{{cite web|title= Bailout Roll Call |url=http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2008/roll681.xml| date= 2009-10-03 |access-date=April 19, 2009 }}</ref>
On September 29, 2008, Bilirakis voted against the [[Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008]].<ref name="Bailout Roll Call">{{cite web|title= Bailout Roll Call |url=http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2008/roll681.xml| date= 2009-10-03 |access-date=April 19, 2009 }}</ref>


In 2022, Bilirakis voted against naming a federal building in Florida after [[Joseph W. Hatchett]], the first Black State Supreme Court judge in Florida and south of the Mason-Dixon line.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Karni |first=Annie |date=2022-04-12 |title=House G.O.P., Banding Together, Kills Bid to Honor Pioneering Black Judge |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2022/04/12/us/politics/gop-joseph-hatchett-florida.html |access-date=2022-04-12 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref> [[File:Rentathon App.jpg|thumb|[[Palm Harbor University High School]] students with Gus Bilirakis after winning the 2020 '''[[Congressional App Challenge]]'''.]]
===Legislation===
On April 10, 2014, Bilirakis introduced the [[Travel Promotion, Enhancement, and Modernization Act of 2014 Act (H.R. 4450; 113th Congress)]], a bill that would extend the provisions of the [[Travel Promotion Act of 2009]] ({{USPL|111|145}}), which established the Corporation for Travel Promotion (also known as [[Travel Promotion Act of 2009#Brand USA|Brand USA]]), through September 30, 2020, and impose new performance and procurement requirements on the corporation.<ref name=cbo4450>{{cite web|title=CBO – H.R. 4450 |url=http://www.cbo.gov/publication/45562|publisher=Congressional Budget Office|access-date=22 July 2014}}</ref><ref name=4450sum>{{cite web|title=H.R. 4450 – Summary |url=https://beta.congress.gov/bill/113th-congress/house-bill/4450|publisher=United States Congress|access-date=22 July 2014}}</ref>
[[File:Rentathon App.jpg|thumb|[[Palm Harbor University High School]] students with Gus Bilirakis after winning the 2020 '''[[Congressional App Challenge]]'''.]]


⚫
==Political positions==
===Movies===
⚫
In 2014, Bilirakis had a cameo as a job applicant in the feature film ''[[Walt Before Mickey]]'' starring [[Thomas Ian Nicholas]], [[Jon Heder]], and [[Armando Gutierrez]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6112036/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cl_t61|title=Gus Bilirakis|work=IMDb|access-date=19 September 2015}}</ref>

=== Initiatives ===
Since 2013, Bilirakis has been an advocate for STEM Education and held the [[Congressional App Challenge]] for High Schoolers in [[Florida's 12th congressional district]]. Each year, students in the Tampa Bay Area are able to submit their apps and Bilirakis's team selects a winner to represent District 12 at the House of Code.<ref>{{Cite web|title=#HOUSEOFCODE -|url=https://www.congressionalappchallenge.us/students/houseofcode/|access-date=2021-07-19|website=www.congressionalappchallenge.us|language=en-US}}</ref> In the 2020-2021 challenge, three students from Palm Harbor University High School (Ayush Pai, Alex Kranias, and Krish Asknani) won this challenge and presented their app, Rentathon, at House of Code.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-01-19|title=Rentathon: The Renting App wins Rep. Gus Bilirakis’ (FL-12) 2020 Congressional App Challenge -|url=https://www.congressionalappchallenge.us/20-fl12/|access-date=2021-07-19|website=www.congressionalappchallenge.us|language=en-US}}</ref>

⚫
== Political positions ==


===Healthcare===
===Healthcare===


Bilirakis supports repealing the [[Affordable Care Act]], also known as Obamacare.<ref name="Williams">{{cite web|last1=Williams|first1=Kathryn|title=Tax bill debate reaches Palm Harbor|url=http://www.tbnweekly.com/north_county/tax-bill-debate-reaches-palm-harbor/article_2c7b41c0-e20d-11e7-8533-afd3c5ace401.html|website=Tampa Bay Newspapers|access-date=24 December 2017|language=en}}</ref>
Bilirakis supports repealing the [[Affordable Care Act]], also known as Obamacare.<ref name="Williams">{{cite web|last1=Williams|first1=Kathryn|title=Tax bill debate reaches Palm Harbor|url=http://www.tbnweekly.com/north_county/tax-bill-debate-reaches-palm-harbor/article_2c7b41c0-e20d-11e7-8533-afd3c5ace401.html|website=Tampa Bay Newspapers|date=15 December 2017 |access-date=24 December 2017|language=en}}</ref>


On February 11, 2017, Bilirakis hosted a townhall in [[Pasco County, Florida]], where he was faced with several protesters angry over the potential repeal of the Affordable Care Act, when a member of the local party (an unauthorized speaker for the county REC), Bill Akins repeated the now debunked claim that the ACA contains "what is effectively known as [[death panel]]s". Biliarkis nodded in agreement and later told CNN that "The board exists, OK? And I've voted to repeal the board." Congressman Biliarkis seemed to equate the death panel with the Independent Advisory Board, a 15-member committee that issues recommendations for reducing healthcare costs, subject to congressional oversight and approval.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.cnn.com/2017/02/11/politics/death-panel-florida-gop-congressman/index.html|title='Death panel' disputes erupt at Florida GOP congressman's town hall|first=Eric |last=Bradner|work=CNN|access-date=2018-05-25}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2009/aug/10/sarah-palin/sarah-palin-barack-obama-death-panel|title=Sarah Palin falsely claims Barack Obama runs a 'death panel'|work=@politifact|access-date=2018-05-25|language=en}}</ref>
On February 11, 2017, Bilirakis hosted a townhall in [[Pasco County, Florida]], where he was faced with several protesters angry over the potential repeal of the Affordable Care Act, when a member of the local party (an unauthorized speaker for the county REC), Bill Akins repeated the now debunked claim that the ACA contains "what is effectively known as [[death panel]]s". Bilirakis nodded in agreement and later told CNN, "The board exists, OK? And I've voted to repeal the board." Bilirakis seemed to equate the "death panel" with the Independent Advisory Board, a 15-member committee that issues recommendations for reducing healthcare costs, subject to congressional oversight and approval.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.cnn.com/2017/02/11/politics/death-panel-florida-gop-congressman/index.html|title='Death panel' disputes erupt at Florida GOP congressman's town hall|first=Eric |last=Bradner|work=CNN|access-date=2018-05-25}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2009/aug/10/sarah-palin/sarah-palin-barack-obama-death-panel|title=Sarah Palin falsely claims Barack Obama runs a 'death panel'|work=@politifact|access-date=2018-05-25|language=en}}</ref>


In early October 2018, Bilirakis released a campaign advertisement touting his work fighting opioids in Pasco County, Florida. In the advertisement, Bilirakis took credit for a law he did not have a hand in crafting. The 30-second ad flashed text about a "Bilirakis INTERDICT ACT" as [[Pasco County Sheriff's Office|Pasco County Sheriff]] Chris Nocco said Bilirakis is "giving us the tools to do our job and get traffickers off the street". The INTERDICT Act provides funding and equipment to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for detecting imported [[fentanyl]]. But Bilirakis was neither a sponsor nor one of 18 co-sponsors, making it unclear how it is the "Bilirakis INTERDICT Act".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.foxnews.com/politics/florida-congressman-seemingly-takes-credit-for-opioid-bill-he-didnt-sponsor-in-campaign-ad|title=Florida congressman seemingly takes credit for opioid bill he didn't sponsor in campaign ad|last=Schallhorn|first=Kaitlyn|date=2018-10-11|work=Fox News|access-date=2018-10-16|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.tampabay.com/florida-politics/buzz/2018/10/10/bilirakis-takes-credit-for-law-he-did-not-craft-in-new-ad-touting-fight-on-opioids/|title=Bilirakis takes credit for law he did not craft in new ad touting fight on opioids|last=McManus|first=Tracey|work=Tampa Bay Times|access-date=2018-10-16|language=en-US}}</ref>
In early October 2018, Bilirakis released a campaign advertisement touting his work fighting opioids in Pasco County, Florida. In the advertisement, he took credit for a law he did not have a hand in crafting. The 30-second ad flashed text about a "Bilirakis INTERDICT ACT" as [[Pasco County Sheriff's Office|Pasco County Sheriff]] Chris Nocco said Bilirakis is "giving us the tools to do our job and get traffickers off the street". The INTERDICT Act provides funding and equipment to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for detecting imported [[fentanyl]]. But Bilirakis was neither a sponsor nor one of 18 co-sponsors, making it unclear how it is the "Bilirakis INTERDICT Act".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.foxnews.com/politics/florida-congressman-seemingly-takes-credit-for-opioid-bill-he-didnt-sponsor-in-campaign-ad|title=Florida congressman seemingly takes credit for opioid bill he didn't sponsor in campaign ad|last=Schallhorn|first=Kaitlyn|date=2018-10-11|work=Fox News|access-date=2018-10-16|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.tampabay.com/florida-politics/buzz/2018/10/10/bilirakis-takes-credit-for-law-he-did-not-craft-in-new-ad-touting-fight-on-opioids/|title=Bilirakis takes credit for law he did not craft in new ad touting fight on opioids|last=McManus|first=Tracey|work=Tampa Bay Times|access-date=2018-10-16|language=en-US}}</ref>


=== Tax policy===
=== Tax policy===


Bilirakis voted in favor of the [[Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017]].<ref name="Almukhtar">{{cite web|last1=Almukhtar|first1=Sarah|title=How Each House Member Voted on the Tax Bill|url=https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/12/19/us/politics/tax-bill-house-live-vote.html?_r=0|website=The New York Times|access-date=24 December 2017|date=19 December 2017}}</ref>
Bilirakis voted in favor of the [[Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017]].<ref name="Almukhtar">{{cite web|last1=Almukhtar|first1=Sarah|title=How Each House Member Voted on the Tax Bill|url=https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/12/19/us/politics/tax-bill-house-live-vote.html?_r=0|website=The New York Times|access-date=24 December 2017|date=19 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222053322/https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/12/19/us/politics/tax-bill-house-live-vote.html?_r=0 |archive-date=22 December 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref>


=== Gun policy===
=== Gun policy===


From 2015 to 2016, Bilirakis accepted $2,000 in direct campaign contributions from the [[National Rifle Association|NRA]]'s [[Political Victory Fund]];<ref name="Grinberg 2018">{{cite news |last=Grinberg |first=Emanuella |date=21 February 2018 |title=These Florida lawmakers accepted money from the National Rifle Association |url=https://www.cnn.com/2018/02/19/politics/nra-pvf-contributions-florida-politicians/index.html |work=CNN |location=Atlanta |access-date=22 February 2018 }}</ref> As of 2017, Bilirakis has an "A" rating from the NRA, indicating a voting record that is generally pro-gun rights.<ref name="ISPY">{{cite web| website=ISPY|publisher=Vote Smart| url=https://votesmart.org/candidate/17318/gus-bilirakis?categoryId=37&type=V,S,R,E,F,P#.Wp3T0edG1PZ| title=Gus Bilirakis' Political Summary on Issue: Guns|access-date=5 March 2018}}</ref>
From 2015 to 2016, Bilirakis accepted $2,000 in direct campaign contributions from the [[National Rifle Association of America|NRA]]'s [[Political Victory Fund]];<ref name="Grinberg 2018">{{cite news |last=Grinberg |first=Emanuella |date=21 February 2018 |title=These Florida lawmakers accepted money from the National Rifle Association |url=https://www.cnn.com/2018/02/19/politics/nra-pvf-contributions-florida-politicians/index.html |work=CNN |location=Atlanta |access-date=22 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180222023226/https://www.cnn.com/2018/02/19/politics/nra-pvf-contributions-florida-politicians/index.html |archive-date= 22 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> As of 2017, he has an "A" rating from the NRA, indicating a voting record that is generally pro-gun rights.<ref name="ISPY">{{cite web| website=ISPY|publisher=Vote Smart|url=https://votesmart.org/candidate/17318/gus-bilirakis?categoryId=37&type=V,S,R,E,F,P#.Wp3T0edG1PZ| title=Gus Bilirakis' Political Summary on Issue: Guns|access-date=5 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180306142306/https://votesmart.org/candidate/17318/gus-bilirakis?categoryId=37&type=V,S,R,E,F,P|archive-date=6 March 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>


As a U.S. Congressman, Bilirakis has voted on several pieces of legislation pertaining to firearms. He supported [https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/38 H. R. 38], which would enable [[Concealed carry in the United States#Reciprocity|concealed carry reciprocity]] among all states if and when it is signed into law.<ref name="HR38">{{cite web| url=http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2017/roll663.xml| title=Final Vote Results for Roll Call 663 | website=clerk.house.gov|publisher=U.S. Federal Government|access-date=5 March 2018}}</ref>
As a U.S. Representative, Bilirakis has voted on several pieces of legislation pertaining to firearms. He supported [https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/38 H. R. 38], which would enable [[Concealed carry in the United States#Reciprocity|concealed carry reciprocity]] among all states if and when it is signed into law.<ref name="HR38">{{cite web|url=http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2017/roll663.xml| title=Final Vote Results for Roll Call 663 | website=clerk.house.gov|publisher=U.S. Federal Government|access-date=5 March 2018}}</ref>


In March 2017, Bilirakis voted in favor of the [https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1181 Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act], which, if signed into law, would prohibit, in any case arising out of the administration of laws and benefits by the Department of Veterans Affairs, any person who is mentally incapacitated, deemed mentally incompetent, or experiencing an extended loss of consciousness, of the right to receive or transport firearms, without the order or finding of a judicial authority of competent jurisdiction.<ref>https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/629 {{Bare URL inline|date=June 2021}}</ref>
In March 2017, Bilirakis voted for the [https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1181 Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act], which, if signed into law, would prohibit, in any case arising out of the administration of laws and benefits by the Department of Veterans Affairs, any person who is mentally incapacitated, deemed mentally incompetent, or experiencing an extended loss of consciousness, of the right to receive or transport firearms, without the order or finding of a judicial authority of competent jurisdiction.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/629|title = H.R.629 - 115th Congress (2017-2018): Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act|date = 3 February 2017}}</ref>


Following the [[2017 Las Vegas shooting]], Bilirakis signed a letter written to the [[Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives]], urging them to reevaluate the legal status of [[bump stock]]s. No action had been taken as of March 2018.<ref name="LV shooting">{{cite web| url=https://kinzinger.house.gov/uploadedfiles/10112017_kinzinger_bipartisan_member_letter_to_atf_requesting_re-evaluation_of_bump_stocks.pdf| title=Letter to the Hon. Thomas Brandon, Acting Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives – Bipartisan Letter to Ban Bump Stocks|access-date=5 March 2018}}</ref>
After the [[2017 Las Vegas shooting]], Bilirakis signed a letter written to the [[Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives]], urging it to reevaluate the legal status of [[bump stock]]s. No action had been taken as of March 2018.<ref name="LV shooting">{{cite web|url=https://kinzinger.house.gov/uploadedfiles/10112017_kinzinger_bipartisan_member_letter_to_atf_requesting_re-evaluation_of_bump_stocks.pdf| title=Letter to the Hon. Thomas Brandon, Acting Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives – Bipartisan Letter to Ban Bump Stocks| access-date=5 March 2018| archive-date=6 March 2018| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180306082846/https://kinzinger.house.gov/uploadedfiles/10112017_kinzinger_bipartisan_member_letter_to_atf_requesting_re-evaluation_of_bump_stocks.pdf| url-status=dead}}</ref>


In the wake of the [[Stoneman Douglas High School shooting]] in 2018, Bilirakis said that he would be willing to consider [[Gun law in the United States|gun control legislation]], "if that's what it takes".<ref name="FLPolitics">{{cite web| url=http://floridapolitics.com/archives/256665-delegation-2-27-18-insights-beltway-sunshine-state| website=Florida Politics|title=Delegation for 2.27.18 — Insights from the Beltway to the Sunshine State| author=Staff Reports| date=27 February 2018| publisher=Peter Schorsch| access-date=5 March 2018}}</ref> Bilirakis said that, specifically, he would support more [[school resource officer]]s in schools.<ref name="FLPolitics"/> He also announced his support for legislation that would "ensur[e] that those who are mentally ill do not have access to weapons".<ref name="MSD statement">{{cite web| url=https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bilirakis-issues-statement-response-tragedy-marjory-stoneman| title=Congressman Bilirakis Issues Statement in Response to Tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School| date=15 February 2018| website=Congressman Gus Bilirakis|publisher=U.S. Federal Government|access-date=5 March 2018}}</ref>
In the wake of the [[Stoneman Douglas High School shooting]] in 2018, Bilirakis said that he would be willing to consider [[Gun law in the United States|gun control legislation]], "if that's what it takes".<ref name="FLPolitics">{{cite web|url=http://floridapolitics.com/archives/256665-delegation-2-27-18-insights-beltway-sunshine-state| website=Florida Politics|title=Delegation for 2.27.18 — Insights from the Beltway to the Sunshine State| author=Staff Reports| date=27 February 2018| publisher=Peter Schorsch| access-date=5 March 2018}}</ref> He said that, specifically, he would support more [[school resource officer]]s in schools.<ref name="FLPolitics"/> He also announced his support for legislation that would ensure "that those who are mentally ill do not have access to weapons".<ref name="MSD statement">{{cite web|url=https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bilirakis-issues-statement-response-tragedy-marjory-stoneman| title=Congressman Bilirakis Issues Statement in Response to Tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School| date=15 February 2018| website=Congressman Gus Bilirakis|publisher=U.S. Federal Government|access-date=5 March 2018}}</ref>


===Nagorno-Karabakh war===
===Nagorno-Karabakh war===
On October 1, 2020, Bilirakis co-signed a letter to Secretary of State [[Mike Pompeo]] that condemned [[Azerbaijan]]’s offensive operations against the [[Armenians|Armenian]]-populated enclave of [[Nagorno-Karabakh]], denounced [[Turkey]]’s role in the [[2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict|Nagorno-Karabakh war]], and called for an immediate ceasefire.<ref>{{cite news |title=Senate and House Leaders to Secretary of State Pompeo: Cut Military Aid to Azerbaijan; Sanction Turkey for Ongoing Attacks Against Armenia and Artsakh |url=https://armenianweekly.com/2020/10/02/senate-and-house-leaders-to-secretary-of-state-pompeo-cut-military-aid-to-azerbaijan-sanction-turkey-for-ongoing-attacks-against-armenia-and-artsakh/ |work=The Armenian Weekly |date=October 2, 2020}}</ref>
On October 1, 2020, Bilirakis co-signed a letter to Secretary of State [[Mike Pompeo]] that condemned [[Azerbaijan]]'s offensive operations against the [[Armenians|Armenian]]-populated enclave of [[Nagorno-Karabakh]], denounced [[Turkey]]'s role in the [[2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict|Nagorno-Karabakh war]], and called for an immediate ceasefire.<ref>{{cite news |title=Senate and House Leaders to Secretary of State Pompeo: Cut Military Aid to Azerbaijan; Sanction Turkey for Ongoing Attacks Against Armenia and Artsakh |url=https://armenianweekly.com/2020/10/02/senate-and-house-leaders-to-secretary-of-state-pompeo-cut-military-aid-to-azerbaijan-sanction-turkey-for-ongoing-attacks-against-armenia-and-artsakh/ |work=The Armenian Weekly |date=October 2, 2020}}</ref>


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===Israel===
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== 2020 presidential election ==
Bilirakis voted to provide Israel with support following [[2023 Hamas attack on Israel]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Demirjian |first=Karoun |date=2023-10-25 |title=House Declares Solidarity With Israel in First Legislation Under New Speaker |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/25/us/politics/house-israel-vote.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Washington |first=U. S. Capitol Room H154 |last2=p:225-7000 |first2=DC 20515-6601 |date=2023-10-25 |title=Roll Call 528 Roll Call 528, Bill Number: H. Res. 771, 118th Congress, 1st Session |url=https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2023528 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=Office of the Clerk, U.S. House of Representatives |language=en}}</ref>


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==2020 presidential election==
===''Texas v. Pennsylvania''===
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In December 2020, Bilirakis was one of 126 Republican members of the [[House of Representatives]] to sign an [[amicus brief]] in support of ''[[Texas v. Pennsylvania]]'', a lawsuit filed at the [[Supreme Court of the United States|United States Supreme Court]] contesting the results of the [[2020 United States presidential election|2020 presidential election]], in which [[Joe Biden]] defeated<ref>{{cite web|last1=Blood|first1=Michael R.|last2=Riccardi|first2=Nicholas|date=December 5, 2020|title=Biden officially secures enough electors to become president|url=https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-joe-biden-donald-trump-elections-electoral-college-3e0b852c3cfadf853b08aecbfc3569fa|url-status=live|access-date=December 12, 2020|website=[[Associated Press|AP News]]|archive-date=December 8, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201208201209/https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-joe-biden-donald-trump-elections-electoral-college-3e0b852c3cfadf853b08aecbfc3569fa}}</ref> incumbent [[Donald Trump]]. The Supreme Court declined to hear the case on the basis that Texas lacked [[Standing (law)|standing]] under [[Article Three of the United States Constitution|Article III of the Constitution]] to challenge the results of an election held by another state.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Liptak|first=Adam|author-link=Adam Liptak|date=2020-12-11|title=Supreme Court Rejects Texas Suit Seeking to Subvert Election|language=en-US|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/12/11/us/politics/supreme-court-election-texas.html|access-date=2020-12-12|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=December 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201211234955/https://www.nytimes.com/2020/12/11/us/politics/supreme-court-election-texas.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{cite web|title=Order in Pending Case|url=https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/121120zr_p860.pdf|date=2020-12-11|publisher=[[Supreme Court of the United States]]|access-date=December 11, 2020|archive-date=December 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201211234004/https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/121120zr_p860.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/12/10/politics/read-house-republicans-texas-supreme-court/index.html|title=Brief from 126 Republicans supporting Texas lawsuit in Supreme Court|first=Daniella |last=Diaz|work=[[CNN]]|access-date=December 11, 2020|archive-date=December 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201212000435/https://www.cnn.com/2020/12/10/politics/read-house-republicans-texas-supreme-court/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


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In December 2020, Bilirakis was one of 126 Republican members of the [[United States House of Representatives|House of Representatives]] to sign an [[amicus brief]] in support of ''[[Texas v. Pennsylvania]]'', a lawsuit filed at the [[Supreme Court of the United States|United States Supreme Court]] contesting the results of the [[2020 United States presidential election|2020 presidential election]], in which [[Joe Biden]] defeated<ref>{{cite web|last1=Blood|first1=Michael R.|last2=Riccardi|first2=Nicholas|date=December 5, 2020|title=Biden officially secures enough electors to become president|url=https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-joe-biden-donald-trump-elections-electoral-college-3e0b852c3cfadf853b08aecbfc3569fa|url-status=live|access-date=December 12, 2020|website=[[Associated Press|AP News]]|archive-date=December 8, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201208201209/https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-joe-biden-donald-trump-elections-electoral-college-3e0b852c3cfadf853b08aecbfc3569fa}}</ref> incumbent [[Donald Trump]]. The Supreme Court declined to hear the case on the basis that Texas lacked [[Standing (law)|standing]] under [[Article Three of the United States Constitution|Article III of the Constitution]] to challenge the results of an election held by another state.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Liptak|first=Adam|author-link=Adam Liptak|date=2020-12-11|title=Supreme Court Rejects Texas Suit Seeking to Subvert Election|language=en-US|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/12/11/us/politics/supreme-court-election-texas.html|access-date=2020-12-12|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=December 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201211234955/https://www.nytimes.com/2020/12/11/us/politics/supreme-court-election-texas.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{cite web|title=Order in Pending Case|url=https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/121120zr_p860.pdf|date=2020-12-11|publisher=[[Supreme Court of the United States]]|access-date=December 11, 2020|archive-date=December 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201211234004/https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/121120zr_p860.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/12/10/politics/read-house-republicans-texas-supreme-court/index.html|title=Brief from 126 Republicans supporting Texas lawsuit in Supreme Court|first=Daniella |last=Diaz|work=[[CNN]]|access-date=December 11, 2020|archive-date=December 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201212000435/https://www.cnn.com/2020/12/10/politics/read-house-republicans-texas-supreme-court/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
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The move was widely panned, with Bilirakis's hometown newspaper, the ''Tampa Bay Times'', writing that he "chose partisan games over national interest". ''The Orlando Sentinel'' went further, calling the group a "national embarrassment", a "danger to democracy", and the "[[Sedition Caucus]]".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tampabay.com/opinion/2020/12/16/congressman-bilirakis-chose-partisan-games-over-the-national-interest-editorial/|title=Congressman Bilirakis chose partisan games over the national interest &#124; Editorial|first=Tampa Publishing|last=Company|website=Tampa Bay Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/opinion/editorials/os-op-florida-republicans-congress-january-6-electors-20201231-3x5vqaavqbg5fiqh6crkryihby-story.html|title=Florida’s Republicans in Congress: A national embarrassment, a danger to democracy &#124; Editorial|first=Orlando Sentinel Editorial|last=Board|website=orlandosentinel.com}}</ref> [[Speaker of the United States House of Representatives|House Speaker]] [[Nancy Pelosi]] issued a statement that called signing the amicus brief an act of "election subversion". She also reprimanded Bilirakis and the other House members who supported the lawsuit: "The 126 Republican Members that signed onto this lawsuit brought dishonor to the House. Instead of upholding their oath to support and defend the Constitution, they chose to subvert the Constitution and undermine public trust in our sacred democratic institutions."<ref>{{Cite news|last1=Smith|first1=David|date=2020-12-12|title=Supreme court rejects Trump-backed Texas lawsuit aiming to overturn election results|url=http://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/dec/11/supreme-court-rejects-trump-backed-texas-lawsuit-aiming-to-overturn-election-results|access-date=2020-12-13|work=[[The Guardian]]|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|url=https://www.speaker.gov/newsroom/121120-3 |title=Pelosi Statement on Supreme Court Rejecting GOP Election Sabotage Lawsuit |publisher=Speaker Nancy Pelosi |date=December 11, 2020 |access-date=December 13, 2020}}</ref> New Jersey Representative [[Bill Pascrell]] called for Pelosi to not seat Bilirakis and the other Republicans who signed the brief supporting the suit, arguing that "the text of the 14th Amendment expressly forbids Members of Congress from engaging in rebellion against the United States. Trying to overturn a democratic election and install a dictator seems like a pretty clear example of that."<ref>{{cite web|last=Williams|first=Jordan|date=2020-12-11|title=Democrat asks Pelosi to refuse to seat lawmakers supporting Trump's election challenges|url=https://thehill.com/homenews/house/529883-rep-pascrell-jr-asks-pelosi-to-refuse-to-seat-lawmakers-supporting-trumps|access-date=2020-12-12|website=TheHill|language=en|archive-date=December 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201212055323/https://thehill.com/homenews/house/529883-rep-pascrell-jr-asks-pelosi-to-refuse-to-seat-lawmakers-supporting-trumps|url-status=live}}</ref>


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In an editorial, the ''Tampa Bay Times'' wrote that Bilirakis "chose partisan games over national interest". ''The Orlando Sentinel'' published an editorial calling the signers of the ''amicus'' brief a "national embarrassment", a "danger to democracy", and the "[[Sedition Caucus]]".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tampabay.com/opinion/2020/12/16/congressman-bilirakis-chose-partisan-games-over-the-national-interest-editorial/|title=Congressman Bilirakis chose partisan games over the national interest|first=Tampa Publishing|last=Company|website=Tampa Bay Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/opinion/editorials/os-op-florida-republicans-congress-january-6-electors-20201231-3x5vqaavqbg5fiqh6crkryihby-story.html|title=Florida's Republicans in Congress: A national embarrassment, a danger to democracy &#124; Editorial|first=Orlando Sentinel Editorial|last=Board|website=orlandosentinel.com|date=31 December 2020 }}</ref> [[Speaker of the United States House of Representatives|House Speaker]] [[Nancy Pelosi]] issued a statement that called signing the amicus brief an act of "election subversion".<ref>{{Cite news|last1=Smith|first1=David|date=2020-12-12|title=Supreme court rejects Trump-backed Texas lawsuit aiming to overturn election results|url=http://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/dec/11/supreme-court-rejects-trump-backed-texas-lawsuit-aiming-to-overturn-election-results|access-date=2020-12-13|work=[[The Guardian]]|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |url=https://www.speaker.gov/newsroom/121120-3 |title=Pelosi Statement on Supreme Court Rejecting GOP Election Sabotage Lawsuit |publisher=Speaker Nancy Pelosi |date=December 11, 2020 |access-date=December 13, 2020 |archive-date=August 14, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220814224010/https://www.speaker.gov/newsroom/121120-3 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
=== Electoral College certification ===
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Many of the signers of the ''[[Texas v. Pennsylvania]]'' amicus brief objected to the certification of the 2020 [[United States Electoral College|Electoral College]] vote, but Bilirakis was absent due to contracting [[COVID-19]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Contorno |first1=Steve |title=Rep. Gus Bilirakis of Palm Harbor tests positive for coronavirus |url=https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida-politics/2021/01/06/rep-gus-bilirakis-of-palm-harbor-tests-positive-for-coronavirus/ |access-date=26 March 2021 |work=Tampa Bay Times}}</ref> He may avoid repercussions that other objectors face, such as the suspension of political donations through a public and corporate pressure campaign due to the objectors' connection to the [[2021 storming of the Capitol|storming of the Capitol]] by Trump supporters that day.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Subin |first1=Samantha |title=Capitol riot reaction: Corporations and the future of political donations |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/13/capitol-riot-reaction-corporations-and-political-donations.html |access-date=26 March 2021 |work=CNBC |date=13 January 2021}}</ref>


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Many of the signers of the ''[[Texas v. Pennsylvania]]'' amicus brief objected to the certification of the 2020 [[United States Electoral College|Electoral College]] vote, but Bilirakis was absent due to contracting [[COVID-19]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Contorno |first1=Steve |title=Rep. Gus Bilirakis of Palm Harbor tests positive for coronavirus |url=https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida-politics/2021/01/06/rep-gus-bilirakis-of-palm-harbor-tests-positive-for-coronavirus/ |access-date=26 March 2021 |work=Tampa Bay Times}}</ref>
=== Impeachment vote===

As a result of the [[2021 storming of the United States Capitol|storming of the Capitol]], the House of Representatives [[Second impeachment of Donald Trump|impeached Trump a second time]]. Ten Republicans voted for impeachment, but Bilirakis voted against it, calling it "politically motivated" and a "highly polarizing ruse that will only further divide Americans".<ref>{{cite news |title=Please see the statement below from Congressman Bilirakis regarding today's proposed impeachment. |url=https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/please-see-statement-below-congressman-bilirakis-regarding-today-s-proposed |access-date=26 March 2021 |work=U.S. House of Representatives |date=13 January 2021}}</ref>
As a result of Donald Trump's role in the [[2021 United States Capitol attack]], the House of Representatives [[Second impeachment of Donald Trump|impeached Trump a second time]]. Bilirakis voted against impeachment, calling it "politically motivated" and a "highly polarizing ruse that will only further divide Americans".<ref>{{cite news |title=Please see the statement below from Congressman Bilirakis regarding today's proposed impeachment. |url=https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/please-see-statement-below-congressman-bilirakis-regarding-today-s-proposed |access-date=26 March 2021 |work=U.S. House of Representatives |date=13 January 2021}}</ref>


==Personal life==
==Personal life==
Bilirakis has four children<ref>{{cite web|title=About Gus|url=http://bilirakis.house.gov/biography/|access-date=2014-12-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141208190732/https://bilirakis.house.gov/biography|archive-date=2014-12-08|url-status=dead}}</ref> and is an [[Eastern Orthodox]] Christian.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pewforum.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2019/01/Detailed-tables-NUMBER-CHECK-COMPLETE-1-3.pdf|title=Religious affiliation of members of 116th Congress}}</ref>
Bilirakis has four children<ref>{{cite web|title=About Gus|url=http://bilirakis.house.gov/biography/|access-date=2014-12-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141208190732/https://bilirakis.house.gov/biography|archive-date=2014-12-08|url-status=dead}}</ref> and is an [[Eastern Orthodox]] Christian.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pewforum.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2019/01/Detailed-tables-NUMBER-CHECK-COMPLETE-1-3.pdf|title=Religious affiliation of members of 116th Congress}}</ref>


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In 2014, Bilirakis had a cameo as a job applicant in the feature film ''[[Walt Before Mickey]]'' starring [[Thomas Ian Nicholas]], [[Jon Heder]], and [[Armando Gutierrez]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Gus Bilirakis |url=https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6112036/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cl_t61 |access-date=19 September 2015 |work=IMDb}}</ref>
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== References ==

== Foreign honors ==
* {{flag|Greece}}
** [[File:GRE Order of the Phoenix - Grand Commander BAR.png|45px]] Grand Commander of the [[Order of the Phoenix (Greece)|Order of the Phoenix]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 July 2024 |title="Greece Honors US Congressman Gus Bilirakis" |url=https://greekreporter.com/2024/07/12/us-congressman-gus-bilirakis-honored-greece/ |access-date=16 July 2024}}</ref>

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==References==
{{reflist|30em}}
{{reflist|30em}}


==External links==
==External links==
{{commons category}}
{{commons category}}
{{wikiquote}}
* [http://bilirakis.house.gov/ Congressman Gus Bilirakis] official U.S. House website
* [http://bilirakis.house.gov/ Congressman Gus Bilirakis] official U.S. House website
* [http://www.bilirakisforcongress.com/ Gus Bilirakis for Congress]
* [http://www.bilirakisforcongress.com/ Gus Bilirakis for Congress]
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* {{C-SPAN|1022873}}
* {{Curlie|Regional/North_America/United_States/Florida/Government/Federal/US_House/Gus_Bilirakis_%5BR-12%5D}}
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* {{C-SPAN|Gus Bilirakis}}
* {{CongLinks | congbio=b001257 | votesmart=17318 | fec=H6FL09070 | congress=gus-bilirakis/B001257 }}
* {{CongLinks | congbio=b001257 | votesmart=17318 | fec=H6FL09070 | congress=gus-bilirakis/B001257 }}


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{{s-ttl|title=Member of the [[List of United States representatives from Florida|U.S. House of Representatives]]<br />from [[Florida's 12th congressional district]]|years=2013–present}}
{{s-ttl|title=Member of the [[List of United States representatives from Florida|U.S. House of Representatives]]<br />from [[Florida's 12th congressional district]]|years=2013–present}}
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Bilirakis, Gus}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Bilirakis, Gus}}
[[Category:1963 births]]
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[[Category:21st-century American politicians]]
[[Category:American people of Greek descent]]
[[Category:American people of Greek descent]]
[[Category:American politicians of Greek descent]]
[[Category:Florida Republicans]]
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[[Category:Members of the Florida House of Representatives]]
[[Category:Republican Party members of the Florida House of Representatives]]
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[[Category:Members of the United States House of Representatives from Florida]]
[[Category:People from Palm Harbor, Florida]]
[[Category:People from Palm Harbor, Florida]]
[[Category:People from Tarpon Springs, Florida]]
[[Category:People from Tarpon Springs, Florida]]
[[Category:Republican Party members of the United States House of Representatives]]
[[Category:Republican Party members of the United States House of Representatives from Florida]]
[[Category:Stetson University College of Law alumni]]
[[Category:Stetson University College of Law alumni]]
[[Category:University of Florida College of Liberal Arts and Sciences alumni]]
[[Category:University of Florida College of Liberal Arts and Sciences alumni]]
[[Category:Eastern Orthodox Christians from the United States]]
[[Category:Greek Orthodox Christians from the United States]]
[[Category:Eastern Orthodox Christians from Florida]]
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[[Category:21st-century members of the Florida Legislature]]
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[[Category:21st-century members of the United States House of Representatives]]

Latest revision as of 04:50, 1 December 2024

"Bilirakis" redirects here. For his father, the politician, see Michael Bilirakis. For the poker player, see Steve Billirakis.
Gus Bilirakis
Official portrait, 2023
Member of the
U.S. House of Representatives
from Florida
Incumbent
Assumed office
January 3, 2007
Preceded byMichael Bilirakis
Constituency9th district (2007–2013)
12th district (2013–present)
Member of the Florida House of Representatives
from the 48th district
In office
November 3, 1998 – November 7, 2006
Preceded bySandy Safley
Succeeded byPeter Nehr
Personal details
Born
Gus Michael Bilirakis

(1963-02-08) February 8, 1963 (age 61)
Gainesville, Florida, U.S.
Political partyRepublican
Spouse
Eva Lialios
​
(m. 1991)​
Children4
Parent
EducationUniversity of Florida (BA)
Stetson University (JD)
WebsiteHouse website
Gus Bilirakis's voice
Gus Bilirakis on Greece's role in aiding Syrian refugees
Recorded September 30, 2016

Gus Michael Bilirakis (/ˌbɪlɪˈrækɪs/ BILL-ih-RACK-iss; born February 8, 1963) is an American lawyer and politician serving as the U.S. representative for Florida's 12th congressional district since 2013. A member of the Republican Party, he first entered Congress in 2007, where he succeeded his father Michael Bilirakis, representing Florida's 9th congressional district until redistricting. His district includes much of the northern portion of the Tampa Bay area. Bilirakis previously served as the Florida state representative for the 48th district from 1998 to 2006.[1]

Early life and education

[edit]

Bilirakis was born in Gainesville, Florida, and grew up in Tarpon Springs, Florida, the son of Evelyn (née Miaoulis) and Michael Bilirakis.[2] He lives in Palm Harbor and is the grandson of Greek immigrants. His grandfather owned a local bakery where Bilirakis worked from a young age.

Bilirakis graduated from Tarpon Springs High School and St. Petersburg Junior College. He then attended the University of Florida, where he graduated in 1986 with a bachelor's degree in political science. He received his J.D. degree from the Stetson University College of Law in 1989. He was an intern for U.S. President Ronald Reagan.[3]

Career

[edit]

Bilirakis operated a law practice, the Bilirakis Law Group, specializing in probate and estate planning, which he took over from his father, Michael Bilirakis. His father served in Congress from 1983 to 2007, and Gus helped run his campaigns.

Florida legislature

[edit]

Tenure

[edit]

Bilirakis was first elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1998 when he won the District 48 seat held for 10 years by Representative Sandy Safley, R-Clearwater, who decided not to run again. This district covers most of north Pinellas County, part of Pasco County, and part of Hillsborough County.

Committees

[edit]

During his tenure in Tallahassee (1998–2006), he chaired several panels including Crime Prevention, Public Safety Appropriations, and the Economic Development, Trade, & Banking Committee.[citation needed]

U.S. House of Representatives

[edit]

Elections

[edit]
Main article: 2012 United States House of Representatives elections in Florida § District 12
Bilirakis in 2007, during his freshman Congressional term

In 2006, Michael Bilirakis announced his retirement after 24 years in Congress, and Gus Bilirakis entered the race to succeed his father in what was then the 9th District. He defeated Hillsborough County Commissioner Phyllis Busansky in the general election with 55% of the vote to become the district's second representative. He has been reelected three more times without substantive opposition.

Committee assignments

[edit]
Gus Bilirakis meets with Diabetes advocate and former Miss America Nicole Johnson

For the 118th Congress:[4]

Caucus membership

[edit]

Bilirakis and Representative Ted Deutch formed the Congressional Hellenic-Israeli Alliance in February 2013.[5]

Tenure

[edit]

Bilirakis is a member of the Republican Party's Whip Team and is Chair of the Veterans’ Affairs Task Force for the Republican Policy Committee. Additionally, Bilirakis serves as a co-chair of the Congressional Military Veterans Caucus and the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues.

He is a signer of the Taxpayer Protection Pledge[8] and a pledge sponsored by Americans for Prosperity promising to vote against any climate change legislation that would raise taxes.[9]

On September 29, 2008, Bilirakis voted against the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008.[10]

In 2022, Bilirakis voted against naming a federal building in Florida after Joseph W. Hatchett, the first Black State Supreme Court judge in Florida and south of the Mason-Dixon line.[11]

Palm Harbor University High School students with Gus Bilirakis after winning the 2020 Congressional App Challenge.

Political positions

[edit]

Healthcare

[edit]

Bilirakis supports repealing the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.[12]

On February 11, 2017, Bilirakis hosted a townhall in Pasco County, Florida, where he was faced with several protesters angry over the potential repeal of the Affordable Care Act, when a member of the local party (an unauthorized speaker for the county REC), Bill Akins repeated the now debunked claim that the ACA contains "what is effectively known as death panels". Bilirakis nodded in agreement and later told CNN, "The board exists, OK? And I've voted to repeal the board." Bilirakis seemed to equate the "death panel" with the Independent Advisory Board, a 15-member committee that issues recommendations for reducing healthcare costs, subject to congressional oversight and approval.[13][14]

In early October 2018, Bilirakis released a campaign advertisement touting his work fighting opioids in Pasco County, Florida. In the advertisement, he took credit for a law he did not have a hand in crafting. The 30-second ad flashed text about a "Bilirakis INTERDICT ACT" as Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco said Bilirakis is "giving us the tools to do our job and get traffickers off the street". The INTERDICT Act provides funding and equipment to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for detecting imported fentanyl. But Bilirakis was neither a sponsor nor one of 18 co-sponsors, making it unclear how it is the "Bilirakis INTERDICT Act".[15][16]

Tax policy

[edit]

Bilirakis voted in favor of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.[17]

Gun policy

[edit]

From 2015 to 2016, Bilirakis accepted $2,000 in direct campaign contributions from the NRA's Political Victory Fund;[18] As of 2017, he has an "A" rating from the NRA, indicating a voting record that is generally pro-gun rights.[19]

As a U.S. Representative, Bilirakis has voted on several pieces of legislation pertaining to firearms. He supported H. R. 38, which would enable concealed carry reciprocity among all states if and when it is signed into law.[20]

In March 2017, Bilirakis voted for the Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act, which, if signed into law, would prohibit, in any case arising out of the administration of laws and benefits by the Department of Veterans Affairs, any person who is mentally incapacitated, deemed mentally incompetent, or experiencing an extended loss of consciousness, of the right to receive or transport firearms, without the order or finding of a judicial authority of competent jurisdiction.[21]

After the 2017 Las Vegas shooting, Bilirakis signed a letter written to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, urging it to reevaluate the legal status of bump stocks. No action had been taken as of March 2018.[22]

In the wake of the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in 2018, Bilirakis said that he would be willing to consider gun control legislation, "if that's what it takes".[23] He said that, specifically, he would support more school resource officers in schools.[23] He also announced his support for legislation that would ensure "that those who are mentally ill do not have access to weapons".[24]

Nagorno-Karabakh war

[edit]

On October 1, 2020, Bilirakis co-signed a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that condemned Azerbaijan's offensive operations against the Armenian-populated enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh, denounced Turkey's role in the Nagorno-Karabakh war, and called for an immediate ceasefire.[25]

Israel

[edit]

Bilirakis voted to provide Israel with support following 2023 Hamas attack on Israel.[26][27]

2020 presidential election

[edit]

In December 2020, Bilirakis was one of 126 Republican members of the House of Representatives to sign an amicus brief in support of Texas v. Pennsylvania, a lawsuit filed at the United States Supreme Court contesting the results of the 2020 presidential election, in which Joe Biden defeated[28] incumbent Donald Trump. The Supreme Court declined to hear the case on the basis that Texas lacked standing under Article III of the Constitution to challenge the results of an election held by another state.[29][30][31]

In an editorial, the Tampa Bay Times wrote that Bilirakis "chose partisan games over national interest". The Orlando Sentinel published an editorial calling the signers of the amicus brief a "national embarrassment", a "danger to democracy", and the "Sedition Caucus".[32][33] House Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued a statement that called signing the amicus brief an act of "election subversion".[34][35]

Many of the signers of the Texas v. Pennsylvania amicus brief objected to the certification of the 2020 Electoral College vote, but Bilirakis was absent due to contracting COVID-19.[36]

As a result of Donald Trump's role in the 2021 United States Capitol attack, the House of Representatives impeached Trump a second time. Bilirakis voted against impeachment, calling it "politically motivated" and a "highly polarizing ruse that will only further divide Americans".[37]

Personal life

[edit]

Bilirakis has four children[38] and is an Eastern Orthodox Christian.[39]

In 2014, Bilirakis had a cameo as a job applicant in the feature film Walt Before Mickey starring Thomas Ian Nicholas, Jon Heder, and Armando Gutierrez.[40]

Foreign honors

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Florida House of Representatives – Gus Michael Bilirakis - 2014 – 2016 { Crisafulli }". myfloridahouse.gov. Retrieved 19 September 2015.
  2. ^ "Ancestry® | Genealogy, Family Trees & Family History Records". freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com. Archived from the original on 2016-03-13. Retrieved 2018-07-26.
  3. ^ "Gus Michael Bilirakis". Florida House of Representatives. Retrieved 26 March 2021.
  4. ^ "Gus M. Bilirakis". Clerk of the United States House of Representatives. Retrieved 3 May 2023.
  5. ^ "Congressional Hellenic Israel Alliance Caucus". American Hellenic Council. Retrieved 26 March 2021.
  6. ^ "Membership". Republican Study Committee. 2017-12-06. Retrieved 2021-03-28.
  7. ^ "Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute".
  8. ^ "Current Taxpayer Protection Pledge Signers". Archived from the original on July 25, 2011.
  9. ^ "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 2012-06-04. Retrieved 2014-10-08.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  10. ^ "Bailout Roll Call". 2009-10-03. Retrieved April 19, 2009.
  11. ^ Karni, Annie (2022-04-12). "House G.O.P., Banding Together, Kills Bid to Honor Pioneering Black Judge". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2022-04-12.
  12. ^ Williams, Kathryn (15 December 2017). "Tax bill debate reaches Palm Harbor". Tampa Bay Newspapers. Retrieved 24 December 2017.
  13. ^ Bradner, Eric. "'Death panel' disputes erupt at Florida GOP congressman's town hall". CNN. Retrieved 2018-05-25.
  14. ^ "Sarah Palin falsely claims Barack Obama runs a 'death panel'". @politifact. Retrieved 2018-05-25.
  15. ^ Schallhorn, Kaitlyn (2018-10-11). "Florida congressman seemingly takes credit for opioid bill he didn't sponsor in campaign ad". Fox News. Retrieved 2018-10-16.
  16. ^ McManus, Tracey. "Bilirakis takes credit for law he did not craft in new ad touting fight on opioids". Tampa Bay Times. Retrieved 2018-10-16.
  17. ^ Almukhtar, Sarah (19 December 2017). "How Each House Member Voted on the Tax Bill". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 22 December 2017. Retrieved 24 December 2017.
  18. ^ Grinberg, Emanuella (21 February 2018). "These Florida lawmakers accepted money from the National Rifle Association". CNN. Atlanta. Archived from the original on 22 February 2018. Retrieved 22 February 2018.
  19. ^ "Gus Bilirakis' Political Summary on Issue: Guns". ISPY. Vote Smart. Archived from the original on 6 March 2018. Retrieved 5 March 2018.
  20. ^ "Final Vote Results for Roll Call 663". clerk.house.gov. U.S. Federal Government. Retrieved 5 March 2018.
  21. ^ "H.R.629 - 115th Congress (2017-2018): Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act". 3 February 2017.
  22. ^ "Letter to the Hon. Thomas Brandon, Acting Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives – Bipartisan Letter to Ban Bump Stocks" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 6 March 2018. Retrieved 5 March 2018.
  23. ^ a b Staff Reports (27 February 2018). "Delegation for 2.27.18 — Insights from the Beltway to the Sunshine State". Florida Politics. Peter Schorsch. Retrieved 5 March 2018.
  24. ^ "Congressman Bilirakis Issues Statement in Response to Tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School". Congressman Gus Bilirakis. U.S. Federal Government. 15 February 2018. Retrieved 5 March 2018.
  25. ^ "Senate and House Leaders to Secretary of State Pompeo: Cut Military Aid to Azerbaijan; Sanction Turkey for Ongoing Attacks Against Armenia and Artsakh". The Armenian Weekly. October 2, 2020.
  26. ^ Demirjian, Karoun (2023-10-25). "House Declares Solidarity With Israel in First Legislation Under New Speaker". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2023-10-30.
  27. ^ Washington, U. S. Capitol Room H154; p:225-7000, DC 20515-6601 (2023-10-25). "Roll Call 528 Roll Call 528, Bill Number: H. Res. 771, 118th Congress, 1st Session". Office of the Clerk, U.S. House of Representatives. Retrieved 2023-10-30.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  28. ^ Blood, Michael R.; Riccardi, Nicholas (December 5, 2020). "Biden officially secures enough electors to become president". AP News. Archived from the original on December 8, 2020. Retrieved December 12, 2020.
  29. ^ Liptak, Adam (2020-12-11). "Supreme Court Rejects Texas Suit Seeking to Subvert Election". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Archived from the original on December 11, 2020. Retrieved 2020-12-12.
  30. ^ "Order in Pending Case" (PDF). Supreme Court of the United States. 2020-12-11. Archived (PDF) from the original on December 11, 2020. Retrieved December 11, 2020.
  31. ^ Diaz, Daniella. "Brief from 126 Republicans supporting Texas lawsuit in Supreme Court". CNN. Archived from the original on December 12, 2020. Retrieved December 11, 2020.
  32. ^ Company, Tampa Publishing. "Congressman Bilirakis chose partisan games over the national interest". Tampa Bay Times. {{cite web}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  33. ^ Board, Orlando Sentinel Editorial (31 December 2020). "Florida's Republicans in Congress: A national embarrassment, a danger to democracy | Editorial". orlandosentinel.com.
  34. ^ Smith, David (2020-12-12). "Supreme court rejects Trump-backed Texas lawsuit aiming to overturn election results". The Guardian. Retrieved 2020-12-13.
  35. ^ "Pelosi Statement on Supreme Court Rejecting GOP Election Sabotage Lawsuit" (Press release). Speaker Nancy Pelosi. December 11, 2020. Archived from the original on August 14, 2022. Retrieved December 13, 2020.
  36. ^ Contorno, Steve. "Rep. Gus Bilirakis of Palm Harbor tests positive for coronavirus". Tampa Bay Times. Retrieved 26 March 2021.
  37. ^ "Please see the statement below from Congressman Bilirakis regarding today's proposed impeachment". U.S. House of Representatives. 13 January 2021. Retrieved 26 March 2021.
  38. ^ "About Gus". Archived from the original on 2014-12-08. Retrieved 2014-12-11.
  39. ^ "Religious affiliation of members of 116th Congress" (PDF).
  40. ^ "Gus Bilirakis". IMDb. Retrieved 19 September 2015.
  41. ^ ""Greece Honors US Congressman Gus Bilirakis"". 12 July 2024. Retrieved 16 July 2024.
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Gus Bilirakis.
Wikiquote has quotations related to Gus Bilirakis.
U.S. House of Representatives
Preceded by Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Florida's 9th congressional district
2007–2013 		Succeeded by
Preceded by Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Florida's 12th congressional district
2013–present 		Incumbent
U.S. order of precedence (ceremonial)
Preceded by United States representatives by seniority
65th 		Succeeded by
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Gus_Bilirakis&oldid=1260510469"