Eric Schmitt: United States Senator Representing Missouri

Eric Schmitt is a U.S. Senator from Missouri known for his strong conservative stance on key issues such as economic policy, national security, and states’ rights. Before his election to the Senate, he served as Missouri’s Attorney General and State Treasurer, where he gained recognition for his legal challenges to federal policies and his advocacy for individual liberties.

Early Life and Education

Eric Schmitt was born on June 20, 1975, in Bridgeton, Missouri, a suburb of St. Louis. Raised in a middle-class family, he developed a strong work ethic and an early interest in public service. Schmitt attended DeSmet Jesuit High School before enrolling at Truman State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science. He later obtained his Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University School of Law, where he developed a keen interest in constitutional law and public policy.

Early Career and Entry into Politics

Before entering politics, Schmitt worked as a private attorney, specializing in business and constitutional law. His legal background provided him with expertise in issues of government overreach and economic regulations, shaping his conservative philosophy.

In 2008, Schmitt was elected to the Missouri State Senate, representing the 15th District. During his tenure, he focused on economic development, tax reform, and healthcare policy. His legislative accomplishments included passing tax cuts for businesses and sponsoring bills that aimed to reduce government regulations on small enterprises.

Missouri State Treasurer (2017-2019)

In 2016, Schmitt was appointed Missouri State Treasurer by then-Governor Eric Greitens. As treasurer, he managed the state’s investments and oversaw programs aimed at enhancing financial literacy and expanding economic opportunities for Missourians. Some of his key initiatives included:

• MO ABLE Program: Schmitt launched the MO ABLE savings program, designed to help individuals with disabilities save money without losing access to federal benefits.
• Financial Transparency Portal: He introduced a platform that provided Missouri residents with greater insight into government spending and financial management.
• College Savings Programs: Schmitt advocated for expanding Missouri’s 529 college savings plans to make higher education more accessible for families.

His tenure as state treasurer solidified his reputation as a fiscal conservative committed to financial responsibility and government transparency.

Missouri Attorney General (2019-2023)

Following the resignation of Josh Hawley to take a U.S. Senate seat, Schmitt was appointed Missouri’s Attorney General in 2019. As the state's top law enforcement officer, he took an aggressive approach to legal challenges against federal policies that he viewed as unconstitutional or overreaching.

Some of Schmitt’s notable actions as Attorney General included:

• Lawsuits Against the Federal Government: Schmitt led multiple legal challenges against policies implemented by the Biden administration, including lawsuits over vaccine mandates, environmental regulations, and immigration policies.
• Crime and Public Safety Initiatives: He focused on prosecuting violent crime, cracking down on human trafficking, and defending the rights of Missouri citizens against what he termed “woke” policies.
• Defending Religious and Individual Liberties: Schmitt championed cases involving religious freedom, Second Amendment rights, and parental rights in education.

His tenure as Attorney General bolstered his credentials as a conservative legal advocate and positioned him for a higher role in national politics.

Election to the U.S. Senate

In 2022, Schmitt ran for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by retiring Republican Senator Roy Blunt. His campaign focused on traditional conservative values, government accountability, and opposition to federal overreach. Schmitt won the Republican primary against several challengers and went on to defeat Democratic nominee Trudy Busch Valentine in the general election.

His victory secured a key Republican seat and reinforced Missouri’s status as a stronghold for conservative policies.

Key Policy Positions and Legislative Priorities

Since taking office, Schmitt has maintained his commitment to conservative principles and has been vocal on various policy issues, including economic policy, national security, healthcare, and social issues.

Economic Policy and Taxation

Schmitt is a strong advocate for free-market policies and tax cuts, emphasizing economic growth through deregulation and reduced government intervention. His priorities include:

• Lowering Taxes: Advocating for tax cuts for middle-class families and businesses.
• Reducing Federal Spending: Supporting measures to limit government spending and address the national debt.
• Promoting Job Growth: Encouraging investment in small businesses and manufacturing industries.

National Security and Immigration

Schmitt has been vocal about strengthening national security and enforcing stricter immigration laws. His positions include:

• Border Security: Advocating for enhanced border enforcement and stronger immigration policies to curb illegal immigration.
• Military Support: Promoting increased funding for the military and veteran services.
• China and Foreign Relations: Calling for tougher policies against China’s economic and military influence.

Healthcare and Social Issues

As a conservative, Schmitt opposes government-led healthcare programs and supports policies that prioritize patient choice and market-driven solutions. His healthcare policies include:

• Opposing Medicare for All: Advocating for private healthcare options over government-controlled healthcare systems.
• Defending Religious Freedoms in Healthcare: Supporting medical professionals’ rights to object to certain procedures based on religious beliefs.

On social issues, Schmitt has positioned himself as a defender of conservative values. His positions include:

• Opposition to Abortion Rights: Strongly supporting pro-life legislation and efforts to restrict access to abortion services.
• Parental Rights in Education: Advocating for school choice and greater parental involvement in curriculum decisions.

Final Summary

Senator Eric Schmitt’s career is marked by his dedication to conservative principles, from his time as Missouri’s State Treasurer and Attorney General to his role in the U.S. Senate. He has focused on economic growth, national security, and individual liberties while challenging federal overreach and advocating for traditional values. As he continues his tenure in the Senate, Schmitt remains a leading voice for Missouri’s conservative movement and a key player in shaping national policy.

References

• U.S. Senate. (2025). Eric Schmitt’s legislative initiatives and policy positions.  https://www.senate.gov/schmitt-legislation
• The Washington Post. (2024). Schmitt’s tenure as Missouri Attorney General and Senate campaign analysis.  https://www.washingtonpost.com/schmitt-missouri-politics
• Politico. (2023). Eric Schmitt’s conservative policies and influence in the Senate.  https://www.politico.com/schmitt-senate
• Missouri State Government. (2024). Schmitt’s record as Attorney General and State Treasurer.  https://www.mo.gov/schmitt-policies
• Bloomberg. (2024). Economic policies and tax reforms proposed by Senator Eric Schmitt.  https://www.bloomberg.com/schmitt-economy

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