Biography
Eric Schmitt, a member of the Republican Party, has been serving as the junior United States Senator from Missouri since January 3, 2023. Born on June 20, 1975, in Bridgeton, Missouri, he is a sixth-generation Missourian with deep family roots in the state. Schmitt's early life was shaped by his family's strong work ethic; his grandfather, a World War II veteran, opened a butcher shop, and his father worked night shifts at the Anheuser-Busch brewery to support the family.
Schmitt's personal experiences have significantly influenced his political career. His son, Stephen, was born with a rare genetic condition causing tumors on his organs, along with epilepsy and autism spectrum disorder. This inspired Schmitt to advocate for individuals with special needs and their families.
Education and Political Experience
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Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, cum laude, from Truman State University.
- Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University School of Law, where he served as an editor of the Law Review.
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Political Experience:
- Alderman for Glendale, Missouri .
- Missouri State Senator representing the 15th District .
- 46th Treasurer of Missouri .
- 43rd Attorney General of Missouri .
- United States Senator from Missouri .
Notable Achievements and Positions
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Legislative Initiatives:
- As a State Senator, Schmitt led a bipartisan effort to ensure insurance coverage for autism therapies, benefiting Missouri families.
- Authored significant tax cuts and championed legislation to end taxation by citation.
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Attorney General Tenure:
- Launched the Safer Streets Initiative to combat violent crime through collaboration between the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Attorney General’s Office.
- Established the state's first Cold Case Unit to deliver justice to long-standing unresolved cases.
- Initiated the SAFE Kit program to address the backlog of untested sexual assault kits.
- Tackled the opioid crisis by securing resources for treatment and holding pharmaceutical companies accountable.
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U.S. Senate:
- Elected to the U.S. Senate in 2022, succeeding Senator Roy Blunt.
- Serves on the Armed Services, Commerce, and Joint Economic Committees.
Throughout his career, Senator Schmitt has been recognized for his commitment to public service, particularly in advocating for individuals with special needs and implementing policies aimed at enhancing public safety and economic growth in Missouri.
