Michael Lawler is a Republican representative from New York's 17th congressional district, having been elected to Congress in January 2025. Born on April 22, 1990, in Kingston, Pennsylvania, Lawler graduated from Wyoming Seminary in 2008 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Scranton in 2012. Prior to his political career, he established himself as a business executive and real estate developer. He also served on the Pennsylvania Republican state committee from 2018 to 2022.

In Congress, Lawler serves on several significant committees, including the Agriculture Committee, the Small Business Committee, and various subcommittees focused on farm commodities, risk management, and rural development. His participation in these groups underscores his commitment to issues that directly affect farmers, small businesses, and rural communities, highlighting his engagement in agriculture and economic development.

Lawler has promoted and co-sponsored several notable pieces of legislation since taking office. One of his sponsored bills, House Bill 1301, known as the Death Tax Repeal Act, seeks to amend the Internal Revenue Code to repeal estate and generation-skipping transfer taxes. This bill reflects his focus on financial incentives aimed at families and businesses, suggesting a lean toward promoting economic growth through reduced taxation.

In addition, he co-sponsored the Laken Riley Act (HB29), which requires the Department of Homeland Security to detain certain non-U.S. nationals who have been arrested for property crimes. This legislation aims to reform immigration enforcement, granting more authority to states regarding federal immigration decisions. The sentiment surrounding this bill is mixed, with supporters arguing it strengthens law enforcement, while critics raise concerns about potential racial profiling.

Lawler also co-sponsored the Securing American Agriculture Act (HB1995), aimed at assessing the U.S.'s dependency on agricultural products from foreign entities, particularly China. This initiative illustrates his focus on national security and food sovereignty by enhancing scrutiny over foreign agricultural investments.

These legislative efforts indicate that Lawler's political stances align with Republican values that emphasize strong border security, fiscal conservatism, and the promotion of local agricultural interests. His actions suggest a commitment to ensuring that local governance has a more prominent role in immigration enforcement and economic policies that directly impact his constituents.

In terms of personal life, Lawler's experience as a business executive likely informs his legislative priorities, particularly in the areas of taxation and economic development. While specific personal details about his family or other business endeavors were not provided, his background in real estate and involvement in political committees suggests a strong network within both economic and political spheres.

Overall, Lawler’s congressional activities and legislative priorities signify a conservative approach focusing on economic growth, support for local agriculture, and an assertive stance on immigration issues.