Steve Austria

Stephen Clement Austria is a former U.S. Representative who served Ohio's 7th congressional district from 2009 until 2013. A member of the Republican Party, Austria made history as the first son of a Filipino immigrant to be elected to the House of Representatives. His political career includes significant roles in both the Ohio House of Representatives and the Ohio State Senate, where he was known for his conservative stances on fiscal and social issues. After announcing his retirement from Congress in 2011, Austria has remained active in political consulting and advisory roles.

Early life and career

Steve Austria was born on October 12, 1958, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is the eldest of nine children in his family. His mother, Jean C. Austria, worked as a nurse, while his father, Dr. Clement G. Austria, was a medical doctor who immigrated from the Philippines to the United States to pursue his medical education. The family has roots in both German and Filipino heritage, contributing to Austria's diverse background. He grew up in Xenia, Ohio, where he completed his secondary education at Carroll High School, graduating in 1977.

Following high school, Austria attended Marquette University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1982. After completing his education, he began a career as a financial advisor. Austria's family was recognized for their contributions to the community when they were named the "Ohio Family of the Year" in 1984. They also received one of nine "The Great American Family" awards from First Lady Nancy Reagan, highlighting their commitment to family values and community service.

Austria's early involvement in politics can be traced back to his father's engagement with the Republican Party, as he served on the Greene County Central Committee. This familial connection to politics likely influenced Austria's own political aspirations and career trajectory.

House tenure

Austria's political career at the state level began when he was elected to the Ohio House of Representatives in 1998, where he served until 2000. He later won a seat in the Ohio State Senate in 2001, representing the 10th District. During his time in the Senate, he held the position of Senate House Majority Whip and was involved in various legislative initiatives, including sponsoring the "Internet Child Protection Act," which was enacted into law in 1998. His leadership roles included chairing the Senate Highways and Transportation Committee and the Senate Judiciary Committee.

In 2008, Austria transitioned to federal politics by winning the Republican nomination for Ohio's 7th congressional district after the retirement of nine-term incumbent Dave Hobson. He successfully defeated Democratic challenger Sharen Neuhardt in the general election, marking the beginning of his tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives. Austria's victory was notable as he became the first son of a Filipino immigrant to serve in Congress.

During his time in the House, Austria was re-elected in 2010, defeating candidates from the Libertarian and Constitution parties, as well as a Democratic challenger. However, following the 2010 United States census, Ohio lost two congressional seats due to slow population growth, leading to redistricting that significantly altered the landscape of congressional districts in the state. Austria's district was dismantled, and he faced the decision to retire rather than run in a primary against fellow Republican Mike Turner, whose district absorbed much of the territory that had previously been part of Austria's own district. In December 2011, he announced his intention not to seek re-election for the 113th Congress.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional tenure, Steve Austria was recognized for his strong conservative stance on various issues. He was a member of the Republican Study Committee and the Republican Main Street Partnership, reflecting his alignment with fiscal and social conservative principles. His campaign platforms emphasized Second Amendment rights, tax relief, opposition to abortion, and the elimination of wasteful government spending. Despite representing a district that had historically favored moderate Republicans, Austria maintained his conservative approach to governance.

In addition to his legislative priorities, Austria was involved in international issues, co-authoring a letter with fellow Representative Steve Rothman addressing the complexities of peace efforts in the Middle East. The letter highlighted concerns regarding Palestinian incitement and the need for efforts promoting coexistence and peace.

During his time in the House, Austria served on several key committees, including the Committee on Appropriations. Within this committee, he was assigned to multiple subcommittees, such as those focused on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies; Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies; and State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs. His involvement in these committees allowed him to influence a wide range of legislative matters, from domestic appropriations to foreign policy.

After concluding his congressional career in January 2013, Austria transitioned to a consulting business and continued to engage in political activities. He has served on the advisory board for the Republican National Committee and has remained active in Ohio politics. As of 2014, he was a member of the Republican State Central Committee, representing the 10th District, and participated in the Republican National Committee's Asian American Advisory Council.

Austria resides in Beavercreek, Ohio, a suburb of Dayton, where he has lived for over two decades with his wife, Eileen, and their three sons. He identifies as a Catholic and has maintained a commitment to his community and political engagement following his time in Congress.