Who Is Running in Washington Congressional District 5th in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Michael Baumgartner
(Incumbent)Economy
HighMichael Baumgartner supported legislation to aid small businesses, including reducing equity requirements for SBA loans and providing assistance for evaluating artificial intelligence (HR 5764, HR 2988). He voted in favor of a Continuing Resolution to fund the government, aiming to get government working and put everyday Americans first. He also emphasizes free markets, advocating for timber communities and opposing China's economic influence while voting against enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies (HR 1834).
Immigration
HighRepresentative Michael Baumgartner supports securing the border and enforcing existing immigration laws. He supported the Laken Riley Act and the 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' which focused on border security and interior enforcement. He also advocates for the "Remain in Mexico" policy and making E-Verify mandatory nationwide. Baumgartner states that these measures are necessary to prevent drugs and unvetted migrants from entering the country and to address related crime and human trafficking.
Healthcare
HighMichael Baumgartner voted against the ACA subsidies extension (HR1834) in 2026. He supported the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), stating it provides stronger hospitals and clinics for service members and their families. He also emphasized the importance of safeguarding federally funded welfare programs, including Medicaid, from fraud to ensure tax dollars are used for real care.
Democratic Candidate
No Democratic candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Michael Baumgartner |
|---|---|
| Economy | Michael Baumgartner supported legislation to aid small businesses, including reducing equity requirements for SBA loans and providing assistance for evaluating artificial intelligence (HR 5764, HR 2988). He voted in favor of a Continuing Resolution to fund the government, aiming to get government working and put everyday Americans first. He also emphasizes free markets, advocating for timber communities and opposing China's economic influence while voting against enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies (HR 1834). High |
| Immigration | Representative Michael Baumgartner supports securing the border and enforcing existing immigration laws. He supported the Laken Riley Act and the 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' which focused on border security and interior enforcement. He also advocates for the "Remain in Mexico" policy and making E-Verify mandatory nationwide. Baumgartner states that these measures are necessary to prevent drugs and unvetted migrants from entering the country and to address related crime and human trafficking. High |
| Healthcare | Michael Baumgartner voted against the ACA subsidies extension (HR1834) in 2026. He supported the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), stating it provides stronger hospitals and clinics for service members and their families. He also emphasized the importance of safeguarding federally funded welfare programs, including Medicaid, from fraud to ensure tax dollars are used for real care. High |
| Climate & Energy | Michael Baumgartner received a 0% score on the 2025 National Environmental Scorecard from the League of Conservation Voters. He opposes breaching the Snake River dams, viewing them as crucial for energy and agriculture. He supports an "all-of-the-above" energy approach, including various sources like hydropower, wind, solar, and natural gas, to ensure reliable and affordable power. He also opposes carbon taxes and cap-and-trade programs, believing they increase costs. High |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | Michael Baumgartner identifies as pro-life and supports the right of state legislatures to create their own abortion laws, consistent with the US Constitution. He supports the option of IVF and hopes states do not prohibit abortion in cases of rape, incest, or to protect the mother's life. He voted in favor of the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act and against state insurer coverage of abortion and contraception. He also supports Crisis Pregnancy Centers, citing a "culture of life" that aids families and women facing difficult decisions. High |
| Foreign Policy | Michael Baumgartner supports a strong American foreign policy focused on national interests, advocating for robust military funding and investment in defense technologies. He emphasizes strengthening military bases like Fairchild AFB and supporting servicemembers and their families. He urges European allies to increase their military capabilities and cautions against foreign acquisition of strategic U.S. assets. High |
| Education | Michael Baumgartner supports local control and parental choice in education, advocating for school choice vouchers and charter schools while opposing federal intervention. He promotes transparency in curriculum and academic standards, seeking to keep political influence out of schools. Baumgartner has also supported higher education initiatives, including leading efforts to reduce state college tuition and establish a new medical school in Spokane. Additionally, he sponsored the DETERRENT Act to safeguard higher education from foreign influence. High |
| Gun Policy | Michael Baumgartner has a 100% voting record in support of Second Amendment issues from his time in the Washington State Legislature. He states the Second Amendment must be protected for personal freedom, hunting, and as a safeguard against government overreach. He is rated 'A' by the Gun Owners of America. High |
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