David Kustoff is a Republican congressman representing Tennessee’s 8th congressional district since 2017. He has deep roots in West Tennessee, having been born and raised in Shelby County.
Throughout his career, David Kustoff has consistently aligned himself with conservative Republican positions. His background as a U.S. Attorney and his focus on issues such as election integrity and pro-life policies have shaped his political career. As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, he plays a role in shaping economic policies. However, his objection to the 2020 election results and his stance on the January 6 investigation have been sources of controversy. Kustoff continues to represent Tennessee’s 8th district, focusing on issues important to his constituents while maintaining a conservative voting record in Congress.
Career Path to Congress
- Graduated from the University of Memphis with a law degree in 1992
- Opened a law firm in Memphis in 1992
- Served as Chairman of the Shelby County GOP from 1995 to 1999
- Appointed U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee in 2006
- Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2016
- Re-elected in 2018, 2020, and 2022
Authored Bills
- Kustoff has sponsored several bills in the 118th Congress, including:H.R.8540: A bill to enhance the employer-provided child care credit
- H.R.8179: Winter Oilseed Study Act of 2024
Stances on Social Issues
- Voted against H.R.1, the “Politician Protection Act,” citing concerns about election security and voter fraud3
- Supported the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, stating he will “always remain committed to advocating for strong pro-life policies”
- Objected to the certification of the 2020 election results, citing “numerous sworn affidavits with election irregularities”
Stances on Economic Issues
- Serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means, which has jurisdiction over taxes, healthcare, trade, and family support programs
- Voted against the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024, which averted a government shutdown
- Supported the Limit, Save, Grow Act of 2023, which proposed significant cuts to domestic spending
Controversial Statements or Actions
- Kustoff received criticism for claiming he had an A+ rating from the NRA during his 2002 congressional campaign when the NRA had never rated him.
- He refused to hold President Trump accountable for the January 6 insurrection, stating that impeachment “would only further divide us as Americans”
- Kustoff voted against creating an independent commission to investigate the January 6 attack