Bass, Karen, 1953-

Karen Ruth Bass (born October 3, 1953) is an American politician serving as the U.S. Representative for California's 37th congressional district since 2011. She is a member of the Democratic Party.

Born in Los Angeles, she studied philosophy at San Diego State University, graduated from the USC Keck School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program, and earned a bachelor of science degree in health sciences from California State University, Dominguez Hills. She later received her master's in social work from the University of Southern California. She worked as a physician's assistant, a clinical instructor, and as a community organizer.

Before her election to Congress, Bass represented the 47th district in the California State Assembly (2004–2010). In 2008, she was elected to serve as the 67th Speaker of the California State Assembly, becoming the first African American woman in United States history to serve as a Speaker of a state legislative body. In 2010, Bass was elected to the United States House of Representatives. She has been reelected to her seat five times.