A. Ferguson IV

A. Drew Ferguson IV is an American dentist and politician who served as the U.S. Representative for Georgia's 3rd congressional district from 2017 until January 3, 2025. A member of the Republican Party, Ferguson's district encompasses areas from the southern suburbs of Atlanta to the northern suburbs of Columbus, Georgia. Prior to his congressional tenure, he held various local government positions, including serving as the mayor of West Point, Georgia. Ferguson's legislative career was marked by his involvement in several key committees and his focus on issues such as tax reform, military strength, and social policies.

Early life and career

A. Drew Ferguson IV was born on November 15, 1966, in Langdale, Alabama. He pursued higher education at the University of Georgia, where he completed his undergraduate studies, and later attended the Medical College of Georgia, earning his dental degree. Following his education, Ferguson established a career as a dentist, operating a family dental practice. His professional background in healthcare provided him with insights into health-related legislative issues during his time in Congress.

Ferguson's political career began at the local level when he served as an alderman in West Point, Georgia. His commitment to public service led him to run for mayor of West Point, a position he held from 2008 until 2016. During his tenure as mayor, he focused on local governance and community development. In 2016, Ferguson resigned from his mayoral position to concentrate on his campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives, seeking to represent Georgia's 3rd congressional district, which was being vacated by Republican incumbent Lynn Westmoreland.

House tenure

Ferguson entered the U.S. House of Representatives after winning the 2016 election. He was sworn into office on January 3, 2017. His initial campaign was competitive, as he faced State Senator Mike Crane in a runoff election after both candidates emerged from a closely contested primary. Ferguson garnered significant support from business-oriented Republicans, which contributed to his victory in the runoff and subsequent general election against Democratic nominee Angela Pendley.

Throughout his time in Congress, Ferguson was re-elected multiple times, demonstrating his ability to maintain support within his district. In the 2018 election, he successfully defeated his Democratic opponent, Chuck Enderlin, with a substantial margin. Ferguson's re-election efforts were characterized by a strong focus on his core political beliefs and engagement with constituents.

In November 2018, following his re-election, Ferguson was appointed chief deputy whip for the House Republican Conference. This role is often seen as a precursor to higher leadership positions within the House, and it placed him in a significant position to influence party strategy and legislative priorities. His leadership role allowed him to play a part in shaping the Republican agenda during his tenure.

Ferguson’s congressional career also included notable votes on significant legislation. For example, he opposed the establishment of a national commission to investigate the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, aligning with the majority of House Republicans on that issue. His voting record reflects a commitment to party lines and conservative principles.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the House, Ferguson served on several key committees that aligned with his legislative interests and the needs of his constituents. For the 118th Congress, he was a member of the Committee on the Budget and the Committee on Ways and Means, which are influential in shaping fiscal policy and taxation. Within the Ways and Means Committee, he chaired the Subcommittee on Social Security and also served on the Subcommittee on Tax. Additionally, he was a member of the Joint Economic Committee, which focuses on economic policy and analysis.

Ferguson's legislative priorities often reflected his Republican values, particularly in areas such as tax reform, national security, and social issues. He advocated for a flat tax system, sought to repeal the Affordable Care Act, and supported measures aimed at strengthening the military. His focus on social issues included sponsoring legislation aimed at restricting abortion and opposing measures that would expand LGBTQ rights, such as the Equality Act.

In December 2020, Ferguson was one of many Republican representatives who signed an amicus brief in support of a lawsuit contesting the results of the 2020 presidential election. This action was part of a broader Republican effort to challenge the election outcomes, although the Supreme Court ultimately declined to hear the case.

Ferguson's stance on Israel was also notable; he voted to provide support to Israel following the 2023 Hamas attack, reflecting his commitment to U.S.-Israel relations. His political positions were often aligned with conservative viewpoints, and he maintained active participation in various caucuses, including the Congressional Taiwan Caucus and the U.S.-Japan Caucus.

Throughout his congressional career, Ferguson faced some controversy, including a situation in 2019 regarding a biography of Robert E. Lee displayed in his office, which drew criticism due to its content. Ferguson's office responded to the situation by removing the book and issuing an apology.

After concluding his congressional service in January 2025, Ferguson transitioned to a role in the private sector, joining Alston and Bird, a prominent law and lobbying firm in Atlanta, as a senior political adviser. He was later appointed as the senior vice president of government affairs for Hyundai Motor Group in Washington, D.C., indicating a continued engagement in political and governmental affairs.

Ferguson is married to Julie Ferguson, and together they have six children. His family life and background in dentistry have shaped his perspectives and approach to public service, influencing his legislative priorities during his time in Congress.