Mark Alford is a Republican representative for Missouri's 4th Congressional District. He was born on October 4, 1963, in Baytown, Texas. Alford graduated from Ross S. Sterling High School in 1982 and pursued further education at several institutions, including Lee College, Southwest Texas State University, and the University of Texas at Austin. Prior to his congressional career, he worked as a television news anchor, realtor, and business owner. Alford has been serving in Congress since January 3, 2023.

Alford is a member of several key congressional committees, including the Appropriations Committee, the Small Business Committee, and the Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Supply Chains. His work on these committees allows him to influence legislation related to financial resources for rural development and small business opportunities.

In terms of legislative activity, Alford has sponsored a number of bills that reflect his focus on agriculture, small business development, and consumer protection. Some notable pieces of legislation include:

1. Expressing support for National Agriculture Day (HR227) – This resolution, introduced on March 18, 2025, emphasizes the significance of agriculture in the U.S. economy. It recognizes March 18 as National Agriculture Day and highlights the contributions of farmers to society.

2. Returning SBA to Main Street Act (HB2027) – Introduced on March 11, 2025, this act seeks to enhance small business support by reshaping how the Small Business Administration allocates resources.

3. A-PLUS Act (HB1648) – This legislation, introduced on February 27, 2025, directs the Secretary of Agriculture to clarify regulations regarding livestock auction owners’ interests in small meatpacking businesses, promoting local economies.

4. SHOPP Act (HB1782) – This bill, introduced on March 3, 2025, aims to improve access to healthy purchasing options when buying produce, promoting better dietary choices.

Alford's sponsorship of the Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Improvements Act (HB358) signifies his commitment to reducing regulatory burdens on small businesses. This legislation modifies the requirements federal agencies must meet when implementing new rules and mandates greater consideration of economic impacts on small enterprises, potentially simplifying compliance for these businesses.

His political stance generally aligns with pro-business and agricultural interests, reflecting traditional Republican values. Alford's focus on reducing burdensome regulations and supporting agricultural initiatives underscores his advocacy for small businesses and rural communities. He emphasizes creating a conducive environment for entrepreneurship to stimulate local economies and improve livelihoods.

Alford resides in Missouri's 4th District, and as a family-oriented individual, he balances his professional responsibilities with a commitment to his community. His previous work experience in broadcasting and real estate has provided him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by his constituents, particularly in the rural segments of his district.

Through his legislative initiatives and committee assignments, Mark Alford is positioning himself as an advocate for small business growth and agricultural prosperity, reflecting both the needs of his constituents and his foundational beliefs in a market-driven economy.