Scott DesJarlais is the U.S. Representative for Tennessee’s 4th Congressional District, a position he has held since 2011. A member of the Republican Party, DesJarlais has a background in medicine and has been recognized as a conservative leader in Congress. Below is an overview of his career path, legislative activities, policy positions, and information about his district.
Career Path to Congress
- Early Life and Education: Born on February 21, 1964, in Des Moines, Iowa, DesJarlais graduated from Brown High School in Sturgis, South Dakota, in 1982. He earned both his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine degrees from the University of South Dakota. ballotpedia.org
- Medical Career: Before entering politics, DesJarlais worked as a general practitioner in Jasper, Tennessee, providing healthcare services to the local community.
- Entry into Politics: In 2010, DesJarlais was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Tennessee’s 4th Congressional District. He has been re-elected in subsequent terms and is currently serving his eighth term in Congress. DesJarlais for Congress
Sponsored Legislation
Throughout his tenure, DesJarlais has sponsored and co-sponsored various pieces of legislation reflecting his policy priorities:
- Healthcare: Leveraging his medical background, he has been involved in legislation aimed at reforming the healthcare system, emphasizing patient-centered care and reducing government intervention.
- Second Amendment Rights: DesJarlais has sponsored bills to protect and expand gun ownership rights, underscoring his commitment to the Second Amendment.
- Agriculture: Representing a district with significant agricultural interests, he has supported legislation benefiting farmers and rural communities.
Votes and Stances on Major Social Issues
DesJarlais has taken clear positions on several key social issues:
- Abortion: He is pro-life and has consistently voted in favor of legislation that restricts abortion access.
- LGBTQ+ Rights: DesJarlais has opposed legislation that he believes infringes upon religious freedoms, which has included votes against certain LGBTQ+ protections.
- Healthcare: He has voted against the expansion of government-run healthcare programs, advocating for market-based solutions instead.
Votes and Stances on Major Economic Issues
In the realm of economic policy, DesJarlais has demonstrated the following positions:
- Taxation: He supports lower taxes for individuals and businesses, arguing that reduced tax burdens stimulate economic growth.
- Regulation: DesJarlais advocates for reducing federal regulations that he believes hinder business development and economic expansion.
- Trade: He has supported fair trade agreements that protect American workers and industries.
Votes and Stances on National Defense, the NDAA, and DARPA
DesJarlais places a strong emphasis on national defense:
- National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): He has voted in favor of the NDAA, supporting measures that ensure the military is well-funded and equipped to address global threats.
- Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA): Recognizing the importance of technological innovation in defense, DesJarlais supports funding for DARPA to maintain the U.S. military’s technological edge.
Demographic Data of Tennessee’s 4th Congressional District
Tennessee’s 4th Congressional District encompasses a large portion of the state’s southern region. Key demographic statistics include:
- Population: Approximately 750,000 residents.
- Age: The median age is around 39 years, indicating a relatively balanced age distribution.
- Race and Ethnicity: The district is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of African American, Hispanic, and Asian residents.
- Education: A significant portion of the population holds a high school diploma, with a smaller percentage having obtained a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Income: The median household income is approximately $55,000, with a poverty rate around 14%.
Controversial Statements
Throughout his tenure, DesJarlais has made statements that have sparked debate:
- Healthcare Reform: DesJarlais has been vocal in his criticism of the Affordable Care Act, referring to it as a “disaster” and advocating for its repeal and replacement.
- Immigration: He has made strong statements regarding illegal immigration, emphasizing the need for strict border security and enforcement of immigration laws.
In summary, Representative Scott DesJarlais brings a background in medicine to his role in Congress. His legislative actions and policy positions reflect his conservative values and commitment to the interests of his constituents in Tennessee’s 4th Congressional District.