Lance Gooden serves as a prominent member of the United States House of Representatives, representing Texas's 5th congressional district since January 3, 2019. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, he holds both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Business Administration, which laid the foundation for his subsequent career as an insurance broker. Prior to his congressional tenure, Gooden also represented a segment of Texas in the state house of representatives from 2011 to 2015 and again from 2017 to 2019.

In Congress, Gooden is known for his involvement in several key legislative areas, primarily focusing on issues related to crime, law enforcement, and immigration. He serves on the Armed Services Committee, where he engages in discussions critical to national defense and military matters. Additionally, he holds a position within the Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee, which oversees various military capabilities and assets, and is a member of the Judiciary Committee, focusing on a range of legal and immigration issues through the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee.

Gooden's legislative record includes sponsoring and co-sponsoring significant bills that reflect his political priorities. One of his prominent recent initiatives is the No Tax Dollars for the United Nation’s Immigration Invasion Act (HB1792), introduced in March 2025, which aims to prohibit federal funds from being allocated to the United Nations for immigration-related initiatives. This bill illustrates his stance on immigration, advocating for stringent measures against what he views as challenges to national sovereignty.

Another notable bill, the Protect America’s Innovation and Economic Security from CCP Act (HB1468), introduced in February 2025, aims to address concerns regarding potential threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party to U.S. national interests through economic innovation. This aligns with his focus on promoting national security and economic independence.

Gooden has consistently supported legislation that underscores conservative principles, particularly in economic policy and national security. His sponsorship of the Keeping Texas School Construction Costs Down Act (HB32), which seeks to provide fiscal flexibility for educational institutions, highlights his interest in educational reform along with fiscal responsibility. Moreover, his legislative initiatives often reflect a broader agenda aimed at reducing governmental interference in various sectors, particularly aimed at benefiting small businesses through measures like the Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Improvements Act (HB358).

On a personal level, Lance Gooden’s background as an insurance broker and his experience in state governance contribute to his understanding of economic and regulatory issues. He is married and has three children, which informs his commitment to policies that affect families and the education system.

In summary, Lance Gooden's political leanings pinpoint a clear commitment to conservative values, as evidenced by his legislative endeavors that focus on immigration control, national security, and fiscal measures aimed at enhancing business growth. His committee positions further enable him to engage actively in discussions shaping significant national policies across multiple domains. Through his work, Gooden continues to strive for a Texas-centric approach to federal governance, reflective of the priorities of his constituents in the 5th district.