Andy Harris

Andrew "Andy" Harris is the U.S. Representative for Maryland's 1st congressional district, a position he has held since January 2011. A member of the Republican Party, Harris is an anesthesiologist by profession. He earned his undergraduate degree, medical degree, and a Master of Health Science in health policy and management from Johns Hopkins University. Before entering politics, he served as a physician at Johns Hopkins Hospital and as a commander in the United States Naval Reserve Medical Corps, where he was called to active duty during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm at Bethesda Naval Hospital. Harris began his political career in the Maryland State Senate, serving from 1999 to 2011. In 2010, he was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives after defeating the Democratic incumbent. In September 2024, he was elected as the Chairman of the House Freedom Caucus. He also serves on the House Appropriations Committee, where he chairs the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies. His legislative focus includes fiscal responsibility, healthcare reform, and supporting the agricultural and maritime industries of Maryland's Eastern Shore.

Congressman Harris maintains a consistently conservative platform. On immigration, he emphasizes border security, supporting the construction of a border wall and increased enforcement while opposing a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. Regarding the economy, he advocates for lower federal taxes, reduced government spending, and the cutting of regulatory burdens on businesses. As a physician, he is a prominent critic of the Affordable Care Act and supports market-based healthcare reforms and physician-led solutions. On education, he supports local control over curricula and school choice, opposing federal micromanagement. His environmental positions include a stated philosophy of conservation while supporting traditional energy production and expressing skepticism toward certain federal environmental regulations. Additionally, he holds pro-life views and is a staunch supporter of Second Amendment rights.