Born on January 25, 1957, in Brooklyn, New York, this representative from Maryland has a diverse educational and professional background. Graduating from Regis High School in 1974, they went on to earn a Bachelor of Science, a Medical Doctorate, and a Master of Health Science from Johns Hopkins University between 1977 and 1995. Their medical career includes service as a physician and a tenure in the United States Navy Reserve from 1988 to 2005.
Prior to their current role, they served in the Maryland State Senate for over a decade, from 1999 to 2011, holding the position of minority whip. They initially ran for Congress in 2008 but were unsuccessful. However, they were elected as a Republican to the House of Representatives in 2011 and have since been re-elected for multiple terms.
In their legislative work, they have been involved in a range of significant bills that reflect their policy priorities and political leanings. For example, they sponsored the Pet and Livestock Protection Act of 2025 (HB 845), which aims to remove the gray wolf from the endangered species list. This legislation is particularly relevant for agricultural interests, as proponents argue that it will benefit livestock owners who have faced predation issues. The bill has garnered attention, having been ordered to be reported out of committee, indicating some level of legislative support.
Another notable legislative effort is the RIFLE Act (HB 2552), which seeks to repeal taxes on firearm transfers. This reflects a broader commitment to Second Amendment rights and has generated discussion about the implications for firearm ownership and public safety. Additionally, they co-sponsored the American Students First Act (HB 2374), which would restrict federal financial assistance to institutions offering lower tuition rates to non-citizens. This bill resonates with the current political discourse on immigration and education, aiming to prioritize American students in higher education funding.
They are also involved in the Dietary Guidelines Reform Act of 2025 (HB 2326), which seeks to improve government dietary recommendations, making them more accessible and relevant to the general public. Alongside this, they have sponsored the Preventing Aliens Through Rivers or Land Act (PATROL Act) (HB 992), a measure aimed at empowering state enforcement of immigration laws.
This representative's political leanings are characterized by a focus on conservative principles, particularly in areas related to agriculture, healthcare, immigration, and gun rights. Their actions reflect a commitment to aligning legislation with the interests and values of their constituents, particularly emphasizing agricultural support and Second Amendment rights. Their co-sponsored bills and legislative focus indicate a preference for limited federal intervention and a strong support for state-level autonomy in various issues.
Outside their political career, personal details such as family composition or previous business endeavors have not been disclosed in the biographical data. The representative remains an influential figure in shaping policy and legislative direction within the House of Representatives.