'Real Housewives' Star Makes History With Capitol Hill Move

Being the first of all, and probably the first of many, lies in sight for the "Real Housewives" members.

Angie Katsanevas stepping into Capitol Hill to testify creates a historical record, as no other star of the franchise has ever done. Becoming an advocate for businesses and, in turn, striving to do some good not only helps the TV personality but wipes the notion that reality TV stars are all pretty faces for drama.

Although another "Real Housewives" star, Lisa Vanderpump, has previously addressed Congress, where she even got a shout-out, this marks the first time one is testifying. The previous address was also an advocacy, but for a different niche.

'Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City' Star Is Bringing Her Voice Up To Capitol Hill 

"The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City" star, Angie Katsanevas, will be testifying on behalf of the International Franchise Association on Thursday. She would be speaking on supporting franchise businesses tied to her expanding salon franchises before Congress. 

Katsanevas has firsthand experience as a business owner with her growing hair salon brand, Lunatic Fringe, that now has 9 franchise locations nationwide. 

Reports shared by TMZ state that her plans stepping into Capitol Hill are to advocate strongly mainly for franchisees of women and immigrants, whom she views as a living example of the American Dream. 

This statement hits close to home for the reality TV star because her parents came to America from Greece. Having that background, she views franchising as a pathway to ownership, generational opportunity, and independence.

What Makes Angie Katsanevas' Appearance Before Congress Unique

 

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Katsaneva's formal testifying before Congress will mark a massive achievement for Bravo, as no "Real Housewives" star has stepped into those shoes before as a reality TV personality.

As earlier stated, this formal testimony does not stand as the first congressional appearance. Lisa Vanderpump previously stood before Congress lobbying lawmakers to take action against the Yulin Dog Meat Festival back in 2018.

She also championed a House resolution to end the dog and cat meat trade. Vanderpump worked on her resolution for years and could not help but be overjoyed when it passed on the House Floor.

Katsanevas's appearance channels the blending of pop culture, entrepreneurship, and public policy in a totally different dynamic. 

Inside Lisa Vanderpump's Previous Congress Debut

Vanderpump, who starred on "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," is a businesswoman, media mogul, and activist. She is also a lifelong animal lover who puts in so much effort to ensure animals are kept protected and safe.

During her appearance, the TV personality got special thanks on the House Floor from then Florida Congressman Alcee Hastings, who introduced the resolution back in June 2017.

Bravo covered that Vanderpump could not contain her excitement upon hearing the shout-out as she excitedly celebrated alongside her daughter and Dr. John Sessa, the executive director of the Vanderpump Dog Foundation.

In her address, she thanked Hastings, Florida Congressman Vern Buchanan, and everyone who supported her vision while encouraging progress and the improvement of animal life.

Angie Katsanevas And Her Husband Built Their Business From Scratch 

 

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Katsanevas is married to Shawn Trujillo, who is also a hairstylist and fitness lover. They founded their salon the same year they tied the knot,  in 1999, as young hairdressers.

The couple started their journey in a 700-square-foot salon in Salt Lake City and has now grown the business, expanding to Ohio, Idaho, and Utah.

They faced their fair share of challenges but strived to make the business work and develop their dream that their salon would be filled with passionate and innovative team members. The lovebirds also own a cosmetology school, Paul Mitchell The School in Salt Lake City.

Bravo previously shared a downside the couple faced with rumors about their relationship on the "RHOSLC" season 4. The infidelity rumors became widespread and upsetting for Trujillo, but they were able to move past them soon after.

The 'Real Housewives' Business Advocate Was Not In Everyone's Good Graces

Katsaneva's actions have not always been applauded; on the reality TV show, she has some moments of disagreement with her co-stars. Last year, during the "RHOSLC" season four reunion, Lisa Barlow shared insight into her rocky friendship with some co-stars.

Some episodes covered Barlow going head-to-head with the opposite couch, specifically Bronwyn Newport, Angie Katsanevas, and Whitney Rose, over several topics, including friendship, as shared by The Blast. 

Their arguments got heated, they had constant feuds in the following seasons, and ultimately, their relationship was severed, and they remain at odds.

Who will be the next "Real Housewives" star to step out into the political world?