DeFazio

DeFazio is an Italian-origin surname. It is borne by several individuals, particularly in the United States, where the name is most often encountered in public life due to the long political career of one prominent holder.

Peter A. DeFazio is a Democratic American politician who served as a U.S. representative for Oregon's 4th congressional district for several decades. He began serving in Congress in the late 1980s and remained in office until 2023. During his tenure, DeFazio held leadership roles on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, contributing to policy debates on highways, public transit, aviation, and other infrastructure programs. Prior to his election to Congress, he served in the Oregon House of Representatives.

Under DeFazio’s leadership in Congress, transportation and infrastructure issues were repeatedly placed at the center of national policy discussions, with emphasis on funding, safety, and modernization. He also participated in broader legislative discussions related to the environment, labor, and regional development, reflecting the varied responsibilities of a long-serving member of a major congressional committee.

In 2022, DeFazio announced his retirement from Congress, and he left office in January 2023. The surname DeFazio continues to be associated with Italian heritage and public service in the United States, particularly in the Pacific Northwest.