Rich McCormick is an American physician, military veteran, and Republican politician serving as a member of the United States House of Representatives from the state of Georgia. Known for combining a medical background with years of military service, McCormick has positioned himself in Congress as an advocate for national security, fiscal restraint, and healthcare reform. Since entering Congress in 2023, he has gained national attention for both his policy stances and his direct, sometimes controversial, engagement with constituents.
Quick Facts
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Full name: Richard Dean McCormick
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Date of birth: October 7, 1968
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Place of birth: Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.
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Political party: Republican
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Current office: U.S. Representative
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District: Georgia’s 7th Congressional District
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In office since January 2023
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Previous district: Georgia’s 6th (2023–2025)
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Profession: Emergency room physician
Who Is Rich McCormick?
Rich McCormick, whose full name is Richard Dean McCormick, was born on October 7, 1968, in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a member of the Republican Party and currently represents Georgia’s 7th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. McCormick first took office in January 2023 after winning the election to Congress in 2022 and later transitioned to representing the 7th District following redistricting. Before his political career, Rich McCormick built a professional life in medicine and the U.S. military, experiences that strongly influence his legislative priorities and public messaging.
Early Life and Education
Rich McCormick grew up in a military family, an environment that shaped his early sense of discipline and public service. He attended Oregon State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He later completed a Master of Business Administration from National University, reflecting an early interest in organizational leadership and management. McCormick went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. His medical education laid the foundation for a long career as an emergency room physician and remains central to his views on healthcare policy.
Military and Medical Career
Military Service
Rich McCormick served in both the United States Marine Corps and the United States Navy, ultimately reaching the rank of Commander. His service included time as a helicopter pilot and medical officer, roles that required leadership under pressure and operational decision-making. McCormick frequently references his military experience when discussing defense policy, veterans’ healthcare, and U.S. global responsibilities. He argues that firsthand military service provides an essential perspective when shaping national security legislation.
Career as a Physician
In addition to his military background, McCormick worked for years as an emergency room physician. Treating patients in high-stress medical environments, he gained experience with the practical realities of the U.S. healthcare system. He often cites rising healthcare costs, administrative burdens on doctors, and insurance inefficiencies as key reasons he supports healthcare reform focused on reducing bureaucracy and increasing patient choice.
Political Career and Elections
Entry Into Politics
Rich McCormick entered politics later in life, framing himself as a non-career politician motivated by concern over federal spending, national debt, and government efficiency. His 2022 congressional campaign emphasized his experience outside Washington, particularly in medicine and the military. He won the election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2022 and was sworn into office in January 2023.
District Representation
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2023–2025: Georgia’s 6th Congressional District
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2025–present: Georgia’s 7th Congressional District
Following court-ordered redistricting in Georgia, McCormick began representing the 7th District, which includes parts of the Atlanta metropolitan area and surrounding suburbs. The district is considered politically competitive, drawing national attention during election cycles.
Role in Congress
Committee Assignments
As a member of the U.S. House, Rich McCormick serves on several influential committees, including:
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House Armed Services Committee
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House Foreign Affairs Committee
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House Science, Space, and Technology Committee
These assignments align closely with his military background and interest in national security, scientific innovation, and oversight of federal agencies.
Legislative Work
McCormick has sponsored and co-sponsored legislation addressing:
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Federal spending and budget accountability
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Military readiness and veterans’ services
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Healthcare system reform
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Government transparency and oversight
While not all bills advance beyond committee stages, his legislative record reflects consistent alignment with Republican policy priorities.
Policy Positions
Economy and Federal Spending
Rich McCormick is a vocal critic of large federal spending packages and growing national debt. He argues that excessive government borrowing threatens economic stability and places long-term burdens on future generations. His voting record reflects support for reduced spending and fiscal restraint.
Healthcare
As a physician, McCormick supports market-based healthcare reforms. He has criticized policies he believes increase administrative costs or limit physician autonomy, while advocating for patient-centered solutions and competition in the healthcare marketplace.
Immigration and Border Security
McCormick supports stricter border enforcement and enhanced immigration controls. He frames immigration primarily as a matter of national security, public safety, and economic fairness.
National Defense and Foreign Policy
Drawing on his military service, McCormick consistently supports strong defense funding and U.S. military preparedness. He has also expressed support for maintaining strategic alliances while ensuring accountability in foreign aid spending.
Public Attention and Controversies
Rich McCormick has received national media attention for his town hall meetings, some of which have featured heated exchanges with constituents over issues such as inflation, social programs, and federal priorities. Videos of these events have circulated widely online, drawing both praise and criticism. Supporters argue that McCormick’s willingness to face tough questions demonstrates transparency and accountability. Critics contend that some of his responses show a disconnect from the economic realities facing working families. These moments have significantly increased his public profile beyond Georgia.
Fundraising and Campaign Finance
McCormick’s campaigns are funded through a combination of individual donors and political action committees aligned with conservative causes. Federal Election Commission filings show fundraising levels typical for competitive House districts. His donor base includes supporters of defense, healthcare, and conservative fiscal policies.
Georgia’s 7th Congressional District
Georgia’s 7th District includes suburban communities north and northeast of Atlanta. The area has experienced rapid growth and demographic change, making it one of the most closely watched districts in the state. McCormick’s constituent services offices assist residents with federal agency issues, veterans’ benefits, and other government-related matters.
Timeline Highlights
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1968: Born in Las Vegas, Nevada
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1990s–2010s: Military and medical career
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2022: Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives
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2023: Sworn into Congress
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2025: Begins representing Georgia’s 7th Congressional District
Conclusion
Rich McCormick stands out among members of Congress for his combination of medical expertise, military service, and outspoken political style. As a representative of Georgia’s 7th Congressional District, he continues to play an active role in debates over healthcare, national security, and federal spending. Whether praised for his directness or criticized for his positions, McCormick remains a prominent and closely watched figure in contemporary American politics.
FAQs:
1. Who is Rich McCormick?
Rich McCormick is a Republican U.S. Representative from Georgia, a physician, and a military veteran serving in Congress since 2023.
2. Which district does Rich McCormick represent?
Rich McCormick represents Georgia’s 7th Congressional District, following redistricting that took effect in 2025.
3. Is Rich McCormick a doctor?
Yes. Rich McCormick is an emergency room physician and earned his medical degree from Morehouse School of Medicine.
4. What committees does Rich McCormick serve on?
He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, Foreign Affairs Committee, and Science, Space, and Technology Committee.
5. What is Rich McCormick known for?
He is known for his medical and military background, conservative policy positions, and high-profile town hall meetings.