Representative Michael Baumgartner, Republican from Washington

Michael Baumgartner

Representative · Washington · Republican

Michael Baumgartner

Biography
Michael Baumgartner, a former diplomat and combat veteran, was elected to represent Washington’s 6th District in the State Senate in 2010. Baumgartner has focused on budget reform, higher education affordability, and veterans’ issues, drawing on his international experience and military service. He chaired the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee and sponsored legislation to expand college access for Washington students. Baumgartner approaches public service with a results-oriented mindset, aiming to address his district’s needs through pragmatic solutions and bipartisan collaboration.
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    2025–Present

    Represented Washington's 5th congressional district for 1 term.

  • Spokane County Treasurer

    2019–2025

    Elected Spokane County treasurer in 2018 and took office in January 2019, serving until his election to Congress.

  • State Senator, Washington 6th Legislative District

    2011–2019

    Served in the Washington State Senate representing the 6th district, including parts of Spokane, Airway Heights, and Cheney.

  • Economics Officer, U.S. Embassy Baghdad

    2007–2008

    Served during the Iraq War in the Office of Joint Strategic Planning & Assessment, helping the Iraqi government as part of the Baghdad Security Plan.

  • Civilian Contractor, Helmand Province, Afghanistan

    2008

    Worked for seven months encouraging poppy farmers to shift to food crops as part of counternarcotics efforts.

Policy Focus
International Affairs33%
Sports and Recreation17%
Native Americans8%
Education8%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Michael Baumgartner's record in Congress.

  • Higher Education Reform

    Sponsored legislation to freeze tuition at Washington’s public universities, improving college affordability for students.

  • Veterans' Support

    Championed measures to expand in-state tuition eligibility for veterans and their families in Washington.

  • Medical Marijuana Regulation

    Co-sponsored legislation to regulate medical marijuana dispensaries and clarify legal protections for patients.

  • Budget Transparency

    Advocated for and helped pass reforms requiring earlier release of state budget proposals to increase transparency.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on Education and Workforce
  • House Committee on the Judiciary
  • House Committee on Foreign Affairs

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