Representative Felix Grucci

Felix James Grucci Jr. (born November 25, 1951) is an American politician and businessman from New York who served in the United States House of Representatives from New York’s 1st congressional district as a member of the Republican Party. Born in New York, he was raised in a family long associated with the fireworks industry, which shaped both his early life and his later professional pursuits. The Grucci family business, founded by his ancestors, became nationally known for large-scale pyrotechnic displays, and Grucci grew up immersed in its operations and traditions.

Grucci was educated in local schools on Long Island, where he developed an early interest in both business and public affairs. After completing his formal education, he entered the family enterprise, Fireworks by Grucci, and worked in various capacities as the company expanded its reputation for high-profile displays at national celebrations, sporting events, and international expositions. Through this work he gained experience in management, public safety, and regulatory compliance, which later informed his approach to public service and policymaking.

Before his election to Congress, Grucci became active in local politics and civic affairs in Suffolk County, New York. He served in municipal government, where he dealt with issues such as land use, local economic development, and public safety, and built a reputation as a hands-on administrator familiar with the needs of his community. His involvement in local Republican Party activities and his visibility as a business leader on Long Island helped establish the political base that would support his bid for federal office.

Grucci was elected as a Republican to the United States House of Representatives from New York’s 1st congressional district and served one term in the 107th Congress, from January 3, 2001, to January 3, 2003. His service in Congress occurred during a significant period in American history, encompassing the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and the immediate aftermath. As a member of the House of Representatives, Felix Grucci participated in the democratic process and represented the interests of his constituents from eastern Long Island, engaging in legislative deliberations on national security, economic policy, and domestic priorities shaped by the events of that era.

During his term, Grucci contributed to the legislative process as part of the Republican majority, working on measures that reflected both national concerns and the specific needs of his district, including issues related to defense, homeland security, and the regional economy. He supported efforts to strengthen security and emergency preparedness in the wake of 9/11, while also advocating for policies intended to support small businesses and local industries. Although he served only one term in office, his tenure placed him at the center of consequential debates over the country’s response to new global threats and changing economic conditions.

After leaving Congress in 2003, Grucci returned to private life and resumed a leading role in the family fireworks business, which continued to stage major displays across the United States and abroad. He remained active in community and civic affairs on Long Island, drawing on his combined experience in business and government. Through his post-congressional work, he maintained a public presence as both a former Representative and a prominent figure in one of America’s best-known family-owned pyrotechnics companies.