A Representative from Indiana, born on May 31, 1962, in Taylorville, Illinois, this politician has a solid educational foundation with a B.S. degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1984, followed by an M.D. from the University of Illinois in Chicago in 1988. He served in the United States Navy Reserve from 1989 to 1998 and has been active in public service as a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives since January 3, 2011, having been elected to seven consecutive Congresses. As of 2023, he has chosen not to seek re-election for the upcoming 2024 Congress.

In his legislative work, this representative is aligned with traditional Republican values, advocating for policies that emphasize limited government intervention, especially in areas such as healthcare, education, and foreign affairs. He has sponsored and co-sponsored several notable bills reflecting these priorities.

Legislative Efforts and Committees

Among the significant bills he has sponsored or co-sponsored, several highlight his focus on gun rights and healthcare. For instance, he co-sponsored the Firearm Industry Non-Discrimination Act (HB53) which aims to prevent discrimination against firearm-related businesses in federal contracting. This legislation emphasizes a protective stance for the firearms industry, reflecting a common viewpoint within conservative circles that support gun rights and resistance to regulations perceived to restrict access to firearms.

Another notable co-sponsored bill is the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act (HB38), which seeks to allow individuals with concealed carry permits in one state to carry their firearms in other states that permit concealed carry. This measure aligns with his advocacy for Second Amendment rights and represents a significant legislative push to standardize firearm carry laws across state lines.

In healthcare, he sponsored the Freedom for Health Care Workers Act (HB497) aimed at nullifying COVID-19 vaccination mandates for healthcare providers within Medicare and Medicaid programs. This bill addresses concerns about personal choice and government overreach in health policy, although it raises critical questions about public health implications.

He also has directed legislative focus towards veterans and military families through bills like the Education Savings Accounts for Military Families Act (HB452), proposing a structured funding mechanism for educational expenses for children of active-duty military personnel.

Political Leanings

His legislative record shows a consistent pattern of supporting measures that promote individual rights and reduce government regulation, particularly concerning firearms and healthcare mandates. The emphasis on Second Amendment rights is apparent through multiple bills he has co-sponsored, advocating for policies that bolster access and protections for gun owners. His efforts to repeal mandated vaccinations underscore a libertarian-leaning approach to health care and personal freedoms, particularly resonating with constituents who prioritize autonomy over government mandates in health matters.

Moreover, he supports initiatives aimed at strengthening the economy through innovation and resource management, as seen in his sponsorship of the Good Samaritan Health Professionals Act (HB2819) and the Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Act (HB1068), indicating an understanding of the need for strategic resource management and innovation.

Personal Life

Beyond his professional endeavors, this politician remains engaged with his community in Indiana. While the available data does not detail specific family information or personal business ventures, his medical background as a practicing physician informs his legislative concerns regarding healthcare policies and the importance of accessible health services.

As he continues his congressional career, he maintains a focus on issues that resonate with his constituents and reflect his commitment to health, safety, and individual liberties. With his upcoming transition away from Congress, his legislative impact will likely shape discussions around these issues for years to come.