Biography
Ron Johnson is the senior U.S. Senator from Wisconsin, first elected as a Republican in 2010 and assuming office in 2011. Born on April 8, 1955, in Mankato, Minnesota, Johnson graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1977 with a bachelor's degree in business and accounting. Before entering public office, he worked as an accountant and later became the CEO of Pacur, a plastic sheeting manufacturing company based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, which he helped found and later purchased. Johnson's political career began without prior experience in elected office, motivated by his opposition to the Affordable Care Act and concerns over federal spending. During his tenure in the Senate, he served as the chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs from 2015 to 2021. He won re-election in 2016 and again in 2022, securing a third term. One of his notable legislative accomplishments was the sponsorship of the 'Right to Try' Act, which was signed into law in 2018 to allow terminally ill patients access to experimental treatments.
Stated positions
Senator Johnson is a fiscal conservative who advocates for reducing federal spending, national debt, and the budget deficit. He is a prominent opponent of the Affordable Care Act, frequently advocating for its repeal in favor of market-driven healthcare alternatives. On immigration, Johnson emphasizes the importance of border security and has supported a merit-based legal immigration system. Regarding the environment, he has expressed skepticism about the scientific consensus on human-caused climate change and opposes regulations that he believes would hinder economic growth. His foreign policy positions include strong support for Israel and maintaining a robust national defense. Additionally, he is a supporter of the Second Amendment and generally favors free trade, though he has expressed concerns about specific trade imbalances.
Legislation
Bills sponsored, co-sponsored, and voted on.
One Big Beautiful Bill Act
Yea on H.R. 1: An act to provide for reconciliation pursuant to title II of H. Con. Res. 14.
S. 5639 (118th): Counter-UAS Authority Extension Act
Cosponsored S. 5639
S. 5608 (118th): A bill to reduce the size of the Federal workforce through attrition, and for other purposes.
Sponsored S. 5608
S.Res. 925 (118th): A resolution relating to the death of the Honorable Fred R. Harris, former Senator for the State of Oklahoma.
Cosponsored S.Res. 925
Other Official Actions
Official statements from the Congressional Record.
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