Gary J. Palmer is a Republican representative serving Alabama's 6th congressional district. Palmer was born on May 14, 1954, in Haleyville, Winston County, Alabama. He completed his high school education at Hackleburg High School in 1972 and subsequently attended Northwest Alabama Junior College. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Alabama in 1977. Prior to his political career, Palmer worked as a cost engineer and served as president and CEO of a public policy research institute while also engaging in nonprofit leadership. He was first elected to Congress during the 114th Congress in 2015 and has since been re-elected for six consecutive terms.
Palmer's legislative activities reflect strong conservative values, particularly in areas such as voter integrity, healthcare management, and fiscal responsibility. A significant piece of legislation that he co-sponsored is the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act (HB22), which aims to require proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration in federal elections. This act represents his commitment to enhancing election integrity, which is often a key concern among conservatives who fear potential voter fraud. However, critics express concerns about how such requirements might disenfranchise eligible voters, particularly from marginalized communities.
In healthcare, Palmer is associated with the introduction of bills like the New Health Options Act of 2025 (HB1776), which seeks to establish a reinsurance program under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to stabilize insurance markets and lower premiums. This shows a willingness to engage with healthcare issues, though it remains within a framework that prioritizes reduced federal intervention in the healthcare system.
His legislative portfolio also includes measures related to financial oversight and efficiency, such as the Standard FEES Act (HB1731), which proposes to streamline evaluation processes in various sectors like transportation and infrastructure.
Palmer has also actively participated in discussions around immigration and law enforcement, supporting initiatives like the No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act (HB32), designed to restrict federal funding for jurisdictions perceived to be undermining immigration enforcement efforts. This aligns with his political philosophy that emphasizes law and order.
In terms of committee involvement, Palmer is active on committees that shape critical policy areas, including those related to energy, commerce, and development. Such positions allow him to influence legislation affecting crucial state and national interests.
Palmer is known to be family-oriented, valuing community and family life which resonates with his constituency. His career transitions from engineering to public service reflect a blend of technical knowledge and commitment to public policy, further enhancing his credibility among constituents who prioritize effective governance.
Overall, Gary Palmer's legislative record reveals a solidly conservative stance characterized by a emphasis on voter security, fiscal conservatism, and regulatory reform. His bills often generate significant discussions, indicating his central role in shaping policy debates in Congress, particularly among more conservative factions.