Marlin Stutzman

Marlin A. Stutzman is an American politician currently serving as the U.S. Representative for Indiana's 3rd congressional district. A member of the Republican Party, Stutzman has held this position since 2025, having previously represented the same district from 2010 to 2017. His political career includes service in both the Indiana House of Representatives and the Indiana Senate, where he gained recognition for his legislative efforts and advocacy on various issues.

Early life and career

Born on August 31, 1976, Marlin A. Stutzman grew up in a farming family, deeply rooted in agricultural traditions. He is a fourth-generation farmer, with his family's farm located across St. Joseph County in Michigan and LaGrange County in Indiana. Stutzman completed his secondary education at Lake Area Christian High School in Sturgis, Michigan, graduating in 1994. Following high school, he pursued higher education at Glen Oaks Community College, where he studied until 1999, and later attended Tri-State University, now known as Trine University, from 2005 to 2007.

Stutzman's professional life has been closely tied to agriculture. He co-owns Stutzman Farms with his father, Albert, managing approximately 4,000 acres in the Michiana area. In addition to farming, he operates Stutzman Farms Trucking, further diversifying his business interests within the agricultural sector.

Stutzman's political career began at a young age when he was elected to the Indiana House of Representatives in 2002 at the age of 26, making him the youngest member of the legislature until 2006. He served in the Indiana House until 2009, when he was elected to the Indiana Senate, representing the 13th district. During his time in the Indiana Senate, Stutzman was active in various committees, including serving as the ranking member of the Utilities and Technology Committee. He played a significant role in passing legislation related to alternative energy incentives and was involved in efforts to improve government efficiency.

In 2010, Stutzman sought the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by retiring incumbent Evan Bayh. However, he was defeated in the primary by former U.S. Senator Dan Coats. This defeat did not deter him from pursuing a congressional career, as he soon turned his focus to the U.S. House of Representatives.

House tenure

Stutzman's congressional journey began with a special election held on November 2, 2010, to fill the vacancy left by resigning Representative Mark Souder. Stutzman won this election decisively and was simultaneously elected to a full two-year term that would expire in 2013. He successfully secured re-election in subsequent terms, serving a total of five terms in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2010 until 2017, and then again starting in 2025.

During his initial tenure in the House, Stutzman was known for his active participation in various legislative matters and committee assignments. He served on the Committee on Financial Services and the Committee on the Budget, where he contributed to discussions and decisions on fiscal policy and financial regulation. His involvement in these committees allowed him to address issues related to economic growth, government spending, and fiscal responsibility.

Stutzman's return to the House in 2025 followed a competitive primary election, where he narrowly defeated his opponent, Tim Smith. This victory marked his re-entry into federal politics after a brief hiatus, during which he remained engaged in local and state issues.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his legislative career, Stutzman has focused on a range of issues, reflecting his commitment to conservative principles and the interests of his constituents. He has been an outspoken opponent of the Affordable Care Act, advocating for its defunding and expressing concerns about its impact on government spending and healthcare access. His efforts included attempts to attach measures defunding the Act to essential government funding legislation.

Stutzman has also been a proponent of fiscal conservatism, emphasizing the need for accountability in government operations. He co-authored a bill establishing the Hoosier Grace Commission, which was designed to identify and eliminate wasteful government spending in Indiana. This initiative reflects his broader commitment to reducing inefficiencies within government and promoting responsible fiscal management.

In addition to his work on healthcare and government spending, Stutzman has been involved in various legislative initiatives related to taxation and energy policy. He signed a pledge to oppose any global warming legislation that would result in tax increases, aligning with his party's stance on fiscal issues. Furthermore, he has supported legislation aimed at promoting alternative energy sources, demonstrating a nuanced approach to energy policy that balances economic growth with environmental considerations.

Stutzman's committee assignments in the U.S. House include the Committee on Financial Services and the Subcommittee on Digital Assets, Financial Technology, and Artificial Intelligence. His involvement in these committees underscores his interest in the intersection of technology and finance, as well as his commitment to addressing emerging issues in these rapidly evolving fields.

In addition to his committee work, Stutzman is a member of the Freedom Caucus and co-chairs the Congressional Constitution Caucus, reflecting his alignment with conservative values and principles. His participation in these caucuses allows him to collaborate with like-minded colleagues on legislative initiatives and policy advocacy.

Stutzman's legislative career has been characterized by a focus on accountability, fiscal responsibility, and conservative values, making him a prominent figure in Indiana's political landscape. As he continues to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives, he remains engaged with the issues that matter to his constituents and the broader national discourse.