Born on August 17, 1965, in Washington, Pennsylvania, this senator graduated from Bloomsburg High School in 1983. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1987, followed by a Master of Public Affairs from Princeton University in 1994 and a Ph.D. in International Relations from Princeton University in 1996. His military service includes a tenure in the United States Army from 1987 to 1992, during which he participated in Operation Desert Storm and was awarded the Bronze Star. In addition to his military background, he has a varied career, having served as the president and CEO of a software company and investment firm. He held several significant positions in the federal government, including Under Secretary for Export Administration at the Department of Commerce, Deputy National Security Advisor for International Economic Affairs during the George W. Bush administration, and Under Secretary for International Affairs at the Department of the Treasury.

He was elected as a Republican to the United States Senate in 2024, with his current term set to end on January 3, 2031. His political career reflects a commitment to economic and national security issues, along with a focus on modern challenges such as immigration, healthcare, and public safety.

As part of his responsibilities in Congress, he serves on several committees, notably the Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, which covers financial systems and urban infrastructure, and the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, which addresses energy policy and resource management. His engagement in these committees has positioned him to influence significant legislation impacting various sectors.

Noteworthy bills that he has sponsored or co-sponsored include the Laken Riley Act (SB5), aimed at tightening immigration enforcement by mandating the detention of certain non-U.S. nationals who have committed property crimes. This legislation signals his strong stance on immigration and security. He also supported the Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act (SB556), reflecting his commitment to national security, particularly in relation to Iran and its nuclear ambitions. Furthermore, he is involved in the Child Care Availability and Affordability Act (SB847), advocating for increased accessibility and affordability of childcare services, demonstrating a concern for family and community welfare.

His political leanings can be characterized as conservative, particularly in his approach to immigration and national security, with an emphasis on law and order. His sponsorship of bills aimed at reforming immigration policy and enhancing sanctions against adversarial nations reflects a traditional Republican emphasis on strong national defense and strict immigration control. Additionally, his support for measures like the Child Care Availability and Affordability Act indicates a recognition of the need for federal intervention in social issues, balancing this with a framework consistent with conservative values.

In terms of personal life, he has maintained a low profile, with limited public information about family or personal business endeavors. His previous roles and extensive education underscore a strong background in both military and civil service, shaping his legislative priorities and political philosophy as he serves the constituents of Pennsylvania in the U.S. Senate.