Michael Baumgartner is a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Washington's 5th congressional district since January 3, 2025. Born on December 13, 1975, in Pullman, Washington, he graduated from Pullman High School in 1995. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Washington State University in 1999 and a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University in 2002. Baumgartner has held various roles throughout his career, including serving as a consultant and a staff member at the U.S. Department of State from 2007 to 2008. He was a member of the Washington State Senate from 2011 to 2019 and has also served as the treasurer of Spokane County from 2019 to 2025. He was a candidate for the U.S. Senate in 2012 but was unsuccessful.

In Congress, Baumgartner serves on several important committees, including the Education and Workforce Committee, Workforce Protections Subcommittee, Foreign Affairs Committee, Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations Subcommittee, Judiciary Committee, and the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee. These roles position him to influence legislation pertinent to education, labor issues, foreign policy, healthcare, and immigration reforms.

Baumgartner has sponsored and co-sponsored a range of notable bills since taking office. Among these is the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act (HB27), which aims to classify fentanyl-related substances under Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, enforcing stricter penalties for trafficking such substances and establishing new research registration processes. He also introduced the Equal Representation Act (HB151), which seeks to ensure representation in the census for various populations, emphasizing inclusivity in data collection.

One of his significant positions is his sponsorship of the No Paydays for Hostage-Takers Act (HB2619), aimed at addressing hostage-taking and wrongful detentions, particularly concerning funds involved with Iran. This legislation underlines his focus on national security and human rights.

Further, Baumgartner's legislative agenda includes educational reforms, evidenced by his sponsorship of the Defending Education Transparency and Ending Rogue Regimes Engaging in Nefarious Transactions Act (HB1048), which expands oversight on foreign funding of educational institutions.

In defining his political leanings, Baumgartner's sponsorship of bills demonstrates a strong stance on law enforcement, national security, and educational accountability. His focus on issues like fentanyl trafficking and sanctions against the Iranian government aligns him with a conservative legislative approach, particularly in matters of crime and immigration. His efforts to amend education policy reflect a commitment to transparency and oversight, appealing to constituents concerned with foreign influence in American institutions.

Outside of his political career, details about Baumgartner's family and personal business endeavors are limited, although his experiences in public service and government provide a foundation for his current role in Congress. His professional journey indicates a dedicated commitment to serving his community and addressing significant national issues through legislation and oversight.