Born on May 7, 1952, in Jefferson City, Missouri, this politician graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lincoln University in 1974. His professional background includes roles as a business owner, banker, and rancher. He has actively contributed to his local community, having served as a member of the St. Elizabeth, Missouri, board of trustees from 1978 to 1987 and the Missouri State House of Representatives from 1999 to 2005. He was also the director of the Missouri tourism commission between 2006 and 2008. He has been a member of the U.S. House of Representatives since January 3, 2009, representing the Republican Party and is currently serving his seventh consecutive term.

Throughout his time in Congress, he has engaged in various committees and has sponsored and co-sponsored multiple bills, aligning closely with Republican values, particularly in the areas of domestic security and social issues. A significant portion of his legislative focus reflects a strong commitment to Second Amendment rights, as seen in his support for the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act (H.R. 38) which seeks to establish a federal framework allowing individuals eligible to carry concealed firearms in one state to do so in others.

Additionally, he co-sponsored the Defund Planned Parenthood Act (H.R. 371), aimed at restricting federal funding for Planned Parenthood and other similar organizations, reflecting his pro-life stance. He has also taken noted stands on various social issues with bills such as the Heartbeat Protection Act (H.R. 175), which seeks to impose criminal penalties on physicians who perform abortions under specific conditions.

His active participation in legislative measures demonstrates his alignment with conservative economic policies, emphasizing tax benefits, small business support, and opposition to perceived governmental overreach. Bills like the Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82), which seeks to eliminate provisions that reduce social security benefits for individuals receiving government pensions, show his commitment to addressing retirement and economic challenges for constituents.

He has been a strong advocate for veterans' issues, as reflected in his support for laws aimed at recognizing veterans' service and providing necessary benefits without added fees. Furthermore, he has shown interest in enhancing mental health support measures with the Local 9-8-8 Response Act (H.R. 4974), aimed at improving access to crisis centers.

Based on his legislative initiatives and sponsors, this politician likely holds conservative views, focusing on traditional family values, financial responsibility, and the enhancement of individual freedoms, particularly regarding Second Amendment rights and fiscal conservatism. His actions represent a firm commitment to the values held by his constituents as well as the Republican Party at large.

As he approaches the conclusion of his current term, having chosen not to run for re-election in the upcoming Congress, his career encapsulates a blend of local commitment, fiscal conservatism, and social conservatism.