Darin LaHood is a Representative from Illinois, born in Peoria County on July 5, 1968. He graduated from Spalding Institute in 1986, after which he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Loras College in 1990 and a Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School in 1997. LaHood has practiced law in both private and public sectors, serving as a prosecutor in Cook and Tazewell Counties in Illinois, as well as for the District of Nevada. He has also held roles as an adjunct professor at the University of Nevada and a staff member for former Representative Jerry Lewis.

LaHood was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015 through a special election after the resignation of Aaron Schock and has been re-elected in each following Congress. He currently serves as a Republican representative for Illinois' 16th congressional district.

In Congress, LaHood has actively participated in several committees, including the Committee on Ways and Means and the Committee on Education and Labor, focusing on issues ranging from healthcare to taxation. He is known for his involvement in a range of legislative efforts, particularly in health, education, and economic policies.

LaHood has sponsored and co-sponsored several significant bills that highlight his legislative agenda. One prominent piece of legislation is the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2025 (HB7). This bill aims to establish clear prohibitions on taxpayer funding for abortions and seeks to ensure transparency in insurance coverage related to abortion services.

Another significant bill is the Preserving Patient Access to Accountable Care Act (HB786), which aims to extend incentive payments for healthcare providers within Medicare's alternative payment models, highlighting LaHood's focus on improving healthcare delivery and ensuring access to essential services. Moreover, he co-sponsored the Chemical Tax Repeal Act (HB640), which proposes to eliminate excise taxes on certain chemicals, reflecting his commitment to fostering a favorable economic environment for industries in Illinois.

LaHood's political leanings can be characterized as conservative, primarily illustrated by his support for pro-life legislation and tax reforms designed to minimize governmental burden on businesses and individuals. His sponsorship of the Firearm Industry Non-Discrimination Act (HB53) further illustrates his advocacy for Second Amendment rights and support for the firearm industry against potential biases in federal contracting. His legislative actions generally aim to promote business-friendly policies while addressing issues of public concern, particularly in healthcare and education.

In his personal life, Darin LaHood is a family man and committed community member, reflecting strong values in both his public service and personal endeavors. His background in law and experience in public service positions him as a valued member of Congress, representing both Republican interests and the needs of his constituents in Illinois.