John Anthony Barrasso III transitioned from a career as an orthopedic surgeon in Casper, Wyoming, to a prominent role in federal politics. Appointed to the United States Senate in 2007 following the death of Craig L. Thomas, he has maintained his seat for over a decade while ascending to the position of Senate majority whip.
Medical Background and Residency
Born in Reading, Pennsylvania, in 1952, Barrasso pursued higher education at Georgetown University, earning a Bachelor of Science in biology before completing his M.D. at the Georgetown University School of Medicine in 1978. He underwent medical residency training at Yale University. In 1983, he moved to Wyoming, establishing a private orthopedic practice in Casper. During his two decades in medicine, he served as the Wyoming Medical Center's chief of staff and held the presidency of the Wyoming Medical Society.
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Barrasso entered the political arena in 1996, unsuccessfully seeking the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate in a race won by Mike Enzi. His electoral success arrived in 2002 when he was elected to the Wyoming State Senate. Serving in that chamber until 2007, he chaired the Transportation and Highways Committee and represented the 27th Senate District.
U.S. Senate Tenure
Upon his appointment to the U.S. Senate in 2007, Barrasso aligned himself with conservative platforms, prioritizing limited government and traditional values. He secured re-election in 2008, 2012, 2018, and 2024, defeating opponents including Nick Carter, Tim Chestnut, Gary Trauner, and Scott Morrow. Throughout his tenure, he has served on the Committee on Finance, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, and the Committee on Foreign Relations. In 2025, he assumed the role of Senate majority whip.
Policy Positions
Barrasso’s legislative record covers a range of federal issues. He opposed the Affordable Care Act and participated in drafting the 2017 Senate version of the American Health Care Act. Regarding criminal justice, he co-sponsored the Thin Blue Line Act, which proposed mandatory death penalties for individuals convicted of killing first responders. He also voted against legislation to expand background checks for firearm purchases in 2013.
Fast facts
- Born: 1952, Reading, Pennsylvania
- Education: Georgetown University (B.S., M.D.)
- Profession: Orthopedic surgeon
- Political Party: Republican
- U.S. Senate Service: 2007–present
- Wyoming State Senate: 2003–2007
- Award: Order of Merit (Ukraine), 3rd class
- Languages: English
Questions readers ask
What medical experience did John Barrasso have before the Senate?
He was a board-certified orthopedic surgeon in private practice in Casper, Wyoming, from 1983 to 2007 and served as chief of staff at the Wyoming Medical Center.
What is John Barrasso’s current role in the U.S. Senate?
As of 2025, he serves as the Senate majority whip.
Achievements
- Order of Merit (Ukraine), 3rd class
