Gary A. Franks

Congressman Gary Franks served Connecticut’s 5th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1991 to 1997 (102nd-104th Congresses). A Republican, Franks served on the Armed Services, Commerce, Select Aging, Energy and Commerce, and Small Business committees. Franks was an outspoken opponent of affirmative action, arguing against special set-asides for women and minorities. Though a member of the CBC, he often found himself at odds with the view of other members. When Republicans gained a majority in the House in 1994, Franks played a significant role in crafting the GOP welfare reform package the following year. Franks is a graduate of Yale University.