US Representative

Mark Messmer

Biography

Mark Messmer, a Republican representative from Indiana, was born in September 1962 and graduated from Jasper High School in 1981. He later earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University in 1985, establishing a foundation in engineering before transitioning into business ownership. His political career began in the Indiana state legislature, where he served in the House of Representatives from 2008 to 2014, before moving to the state senate from 2014 until his election to the U.S. Congress in January 2025.

As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Mark Messmer serves on several key committees, including the Agriculture Committee and the Armed Services Committee, where he engages in legislation affecting vital sectors of the American economy and national security. His involvement in these committees highlights his focus on agricultural policy and the management of defense resources.

In the 119th Congress, Messmer has co-sponsored a variety of significant bills, reflecting a strong stance on issues ranging from public safety and gun rights to immigration and national security. Notably, he co-sponsored the HALT Fentanyl Act (HB27), which aims to classify fentanyl-related substances as a class under the Controlled Substances Act, indicating a commitment to combatting substance abuse and trafficking. This bill aligns with similar legislative efforts aimed at addressing the opioid crisis and ensuring strict penalties for trafficking these harmful substances.

Furthermore, Messmer has expressed support for gun rights through his co-sponsoring of the Firearm Industry Non-Discrimination Act (HB45), which seeks to prohibit federal contracts with entities that discriminate against firearm-related businesses. This measure is part of a broader effort to protect the rights of gun owners and businesses within the firearms industry.

On the immigration front, he has also supported bills like the Return Excessive Migrants and Asylees to International Neighbors in Mexico Act (HB273), seeking to implement and maintain previous immigration protocols that require asylum seekers to stay in Mexico during their proceedings. Such legislation underscores his focus on security and maintaining stringent immigration controls.

Messmer's political leanings can thus be characterized as fiscally conservative and socially aligned with traditional Republican values, demonstrated by his support for limited governmental intervention in business and a strong defense of the Second Amendment. He appears committed to legislation that enhances public safety, supports local businesses, and addresses the complex dynamics of immigration reform.

In addition to his legislative activities, Messmer's personal life reflects the values of community involvement and public service. Details regarding his family, business endeavors, or community engagement may provide further insights into his motivations and legislative priorities, though such information is less prominently featured in official biographical records. His time in both state and federal government positions him to leverage his engineering background and business acumen while addressing complex legislative challenges impacting his constituents in Indiana and beyond.