Jack Bergman

Jack Bergman. John Warren "Jack" Bergman is an American politician and retired United States Marine Corps lieutenant general serving as the U.S. Representative for Michigan's 1st congressional district. First elected in 2016, he is a member of the Republican Party. His district encompasses the entire Upper Peninsula of Michigan and much of the Northern Michigan region of the Lower Peninsula. Prior to his political career, Bergman served for 40 years in the U.S. military, culminating as the commander of Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces North.

Early life and education

John Warren Bergman was born in Shakopee, Minnesota, and grew up in the nearby city of Chaska. He attended Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and was commissioned as a second lieutenant through the Platoon Leaders Class program. Following his initial military training, Bergman later pursued graduate studies, obtaining a Master of Science degree in aeronautical systems from the University of West Florida. His educational background provided a foundation for his subsequent career as a naval aviator.

Military career

Bergman's military career spanned four decades, from 1969 until his retirement in 2009. He served as a naval aviator, flying the CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter and later the KC-130 Hercules tanker aircraft. His service included combat tours during the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and the Iraq War. Bergman rose through the ranks to achieve the three-star rank of lieutenant general. His final and most senior command was as the commander of Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces North, a role in which he was responsible for all Marine Corps Reserve forces across the United States. His decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal and the Legion of Merit.

U.S. House of Representatives

Bergman was elected to the United States House of Representatives in the 2016 election, succeeding retiring Republican Dan Benishek. He represents Michigan's 1st congressional district, a vast and largely rural district covering the Upper Peninsula and northern parts of the Lower Peninsula. Upon taking office, he was assigned to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs and the House Committee on Natural Resources, panels critical to his district's interests. Bergman has since served on the House Armed Services Committee, leveraging his military expertise. He was a participant in the January 6 Capitol attack hearings as a member of the relevant committees.

Political positions

Bergman is a conservative Republican whose political stances align with the party's mainstream. He is a strong supporter of the Second Amendment and has received an "A" rating from the National Rifle Association. On economic policy, he supported the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 and advocates for deregulation in industries like mining and logging. Regarding foreign policy and national security, he takes a hawkish stance, supporting increased defense spending and a robust military posture, often citing his experience with the Department of Defense. He has been a consistent supporter of former President Donald Trump and voted against certifying the results of the 2020 presidential election in Pennsylvania and Arizona.

Electoral history

Bergman first won election to Congress in 2016, defeating Democratic nominee Lon Johnson and several third-party candidates. He was reelected in 2018 against Democrat Matt Morgan. In the 2020 election, he defeated Democratic candidate Dana Ferguson. His most recent reelection came in 2022, where he won against Democrat Bob Lorinser. Throughout his campaigns, Bergman has emphasized his military background, support for veterans' issues, and advocacy for the natural resource economies of northern Michigan.

Category:1947 births Category:Living people Category:Members of the United States House of Representatives from Michigan Category:Michigan Republicans Category:United States Marine Corps lieutenant generals