Michael Baumgartner — Republican Candidate for U.S. House in Washington, 2026

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.

““We have to be a nation of laws,” he said. “I do want immigration laws enforced.” — U.S. Rep. Michael Baumgartner, Union-Bulletin interview, January 30”

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.

““The passage of the NDAA is first and foremost about keeping faith with the men and women who wear the uniform and the families who stand behind them,” said Congressman Baumgartner. “It gives our troops in Eastern Washington a much-needed pay raise, safer barracks to sleep in, better homes for their families, and stronger hospitals and clinics when they need care. It also takes on the drugs flowing into our communities, stands shoulder to shoulder with our allies around the globe, and makes sure they can count on America when it matters most. Supporting this bill was an easy choice, because it honors the sacrifice of those who serve, keeps them safer on and off the battlefield, and reflects the values we share as a nation.” - Congressman Baumgartner, Statement on Final Passage of FY26 NDAA (September 2025)”

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.

“Preserving our salmon population is important, and I appreciate the ongoing science-based salmon recovery efforts. Fish survival rates at the dams are comparable to free-flowing rivers, and salmon returns have improved over recent years. Unfortunately, the fish are under pressure from other factors including warmer ocean conditions, predatory birds and sea lions. Removing the dams is not the answer. There are some who want to breach the dams. I’ll work to ensure this never happens. Federal policy must protect the dams. — Michael Baumgartner, votebaumgartner.com, Undated”

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.

“I support the right of the people and legislatures of each state to make their own abortion laws as consistent with the US Constitution. [...] I am Catholic and pro-life. I support the option of IVF for those who need it. I would hope no state would adopt laws that prohibits abortion in cases of rape, incest, or when needed to protect the life of the mother.”

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.

“I will support a strong and smart American foreign policy. I will work to ensure that the Chinese Communist Government does not buy up strategic US assets such as water rights, energy infrastructure or farmland near our military bases. We need to be feared and respected on the international stage. Right now, we are neither. Yet, we must stay engaged with the world. The world is a dangerous place and if we were to fully withdraw, our enemies would exploit the situation. Foreign events impact us here at home. Our foreign policy must first serve America’s interests, and we need our allies to step up and share the burden of countering hostile actors. - Michael Baumgartner, votebaumgartner.com”

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.

““Teachers ignite curiosity, build confidence, and shape the leaders of tomorrow,” Baumgartner said in a statement. “Last year’s inaugural contest was an incredible experience, and I was honored to have Stacey Nash from Wilbur-Creston join me at the State of the Union. This year, I’m excited to continue the tradition, giving students across Eastern Washington the chance to spotlight the teachers who make a lasting difference in their lives.” - Michael Baumgartner, The Spokesman-Review, February 3, 2026”

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.

“I had a 100% voting record in support of 2nd Amendment issues during my time in the Washington State Legislature and will continue to vote in support of the 2nd Amendment. The 2nd Amendment must be protected both for personal freedom and hunting, but also to protect against tyranny of the Government. — Michael Baumgartner, votebaumgartner.com”