Stan Gerdes is a fifth-generation Central Texan residing in Smithville, Texas. He attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he met his wife, Samantha. Prior to his election to the Texas House of Representatives, Stan spent over a decade working closely with Governor Rick Perry, during which he held various roles, including Senior Advisor during Perry's tenure as Secretary of Energy. Gerdes played a significant part in achieving U.S. energy independence, with responsibilities that included managing a team for the Secretary's agenda and promoting American energy solutions internationally.

In his legislative capacity, Gerdes has focused on diverse initiatives. During his first session, he helped pass substantial legislation, notably the largest property tax cut in American history and securing significant funding for border security initiatives, amounting to approximately $5.1 billion. He also championed increases in funding for rural law enforcement agencies and played a role in creating the Texas Water Fund to ensure sustainable access to water resources. As a staunch advocate for individual liberties, Gerdes emphasizes the protection of the Second Amendment and the right to life.

Representative Gerdes is affiliated with several legislative committees, including the County Affairs Committee, which addresses various local governance issues including sheriff departmental operations and emergency medical services, and the Energy Resources Committee, which oversees matters pertaining to Texas's energy policies and enforcement of regulations within the sector.

Among the notable bills he has sponsored or co-sponsored, House Bill 626 aims to provide a minimum salary for sheriffs in smaller counties, ensuring fair compensation for law enforcement in rural areas. This reflects Gerdes' commitment to support local law enforcement amid financial challenges.

He also sponsored House Bill 18, which focuses on enhancing digital safety for minors, outlining responsibilities for digital service providers to protect children online, indicating a shift towards prioritizing youth safety in an increasingly technological environment.

Gerdes' legislative portfolio also features House Bill 1474, which provides explicit protections for pregnant and parenting students in public higher education institutions by ensuring accommodations and safeguards against discrimination. Additionally, he has engaged with House Bill 5, which aims at expanding broadband services, thus highlighting his commitment to infrastructural development and access to essential services for Texans.

Gerdes is also involved in discussions surrounding border security, sponsoring legislation that facilitates substantial funding for border barrier infrastructure through House Bill 3 and supporting an interstate compact for enhanced state-led border control efforts via Senate Bill 1403. This reflects his alignment with more stringent security measures amid ongoing national debates on immigration.

Overall, Stan Gerdes' legislative actions demonstrate a conservative approach, particularly regarding fiscal policies, individual rights, and governmental funding priorities. His support for tax cuts, law enforcement funding, and digital safety for minors illustrate a commitment to enhancing community welfare while balancing state governance needs. His initiatives indicate a political leaning towards prioritizing local control and individual liberties, amidst broader national discussions on security and social welfare.

Gerdes and his wife, Samantha, an attorney who serves as general counsel for a firearm manufacturer, reside in Smithville with their young son. They are both active members of their community, engaging in local initiatives that support educational, health, and family-centered values, reaffirming a family-oriented approach in their personal and professional commitments.