Biography

Ronald Harold Johnson, born on April 8, 1955, in Mankato, Minnesota, is an American businessman and politician serving as the senior United States Senator from Wisconsin. A member of the Republican Party, Johnson was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 2010, defeating Democratic incumbent Russ Feingold. He was reelected in 2016 and 2022. Before entering politics, Johnson was the chief executive officer of PACUR, a plastics manufacturing company based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Johnson attended the University of Minnesota, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business and accounting in 1977.

• Political Experience:

  • Elected to the U.S. Senate in 2010, defeating incumbent Russ Feingold.
  • Reelected in 2016 and 2022.
  • Served as chairman of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs from 2015 to 2021.

Notable Achievements and Positions

• Legislative Accomplishments:

  • As chairman of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, Johnson focused on enhancing border security, cybersecurity, and countering terrorism.
  • Supported pro-growth tax reform and efforts to reduce regulatory burdens on businesses.

• Community Initiatives:

  • Co-founded the Joseph Project, an initiative connecting individuals with employment opportunities, aiming to address unemployment and poverty in Wisconsin communities.

• Policy Positions:

  • Advocated for reducing federal control over education, emphasizing local decision-making.
  • Opposed the Affordable Care Act and supported its repeal.
  • Expressed skepticism about the scientific consensus on climate change.

Johnson resides in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, with his wife, Jane. They have three children and two grandchildren.