Brad Wenstrup facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Brad Wenstrup
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Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Ohio's 2nd district |
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In office January 3, 2013 – January 3, 2025 |
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Preceded by | Jean Schmidt |
Succeeded by | David Taylor |
Personal details | |
Born |
Brad Robert Wenstrup
June 17, 1958 Cincinnati, Ohio, U.S. |
Political party | Republican |
Spouse |
Monica Klein
(m. 2012) |
Children | 2 |
Education | University of Cincinnati (BA) Rosalind Franklin University (BS, DPM) |
Military service | |
Branch/service | |
Years of service | 1998–2022 |
Rank | Colonel |
Unit | 344th Combat Support Hospital |
Battles/wars | Iraq War |
Awards |
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Brad Robert Wenstrup, born on June 17, 1958, is an American politician and a doctor. He also served as an officer in the United States Army Reserve. From 2013 to 2025, he was a U.S. representative for Ohio's 2nd district. He is a member of the Republican Party.
Wenstrup is a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. He is also a veteran of the Iraq War. In 2017, he helped Congressman Steve Scalise after a shooting incident. For his brave actions, Wenstrup received the Soldier's Medal.
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Early Life and Education
Brad Wenstrup grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio. He graduated from St. Xavier High School in 1976. He then attended the University of Cincinnati. In 1980, he earned a degree in psychology.
Later, he studied at the Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine. This school is part of Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science. He earned a science degree and became a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine in 1985. A podiatrist is a doctor who specializes in feet.
Medical and Military Career
Before becoming a politician, Wenstrup worked as a podiatrist in Cincinnati for over 24 years. He helped many people with their foot health.
Military Service
Wenstrup joined the United States Army Reserve in 1998. He became a colonel in 2017. From 2005 to 2006, he served in Iraq with a medical unit. He said this experience was both challenging and rewarding.
During his time in Iraq, Wenstrup received the Bronze Star Medal. He also earned the Combat Action Badge. He helped organize donations of toys and school supplies for local Iraqi children. This showed his care for the people he met.
Running for Mayor
In 2009, Wenstrup ran for mayor of Cincinnati. He ran against the current mayor, Mark Mallory. Wenstrup did not win the election.
Serving in the U.S. House of Representatives
Brad Wenstrup was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2012. He represented Ohio's 2nd congressional district. He won against the sitting congresswoman, Jean Schmidt, in the primary election. Then, he won the general election.
He was reelected several times. He served five terms in Congress. In November 2023, he announced he would not run for re-election in 2024. His term ended in January 2025.
Work in Congress
As a U.S. Representative, Wenstrup worked on various issues. His office conducted surveys to hear from people he represented. He also worked on military intelligence matters.
He helped pass a law called the VA Prescription Data Accountability Act. This law helps protect veterans who receive prescription medicines. It also works to prevent misuse of these medications.
Wenstrup also worked on the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic. This group studied the pandemic and how to prepare for future health crises. They published a report in December 2024.
Committee Roles
In Congress, Wenstrup was part of important committees. These included:
- The Committee on Ways & Means. This committee deals with taxes and other money matters.
- The United States House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. This committee oversees intelligence agencies.
- The United States House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic.
After Congress
After leaving Congress in 2025, Wenstrup was appointed to the President's Intelligence Advisory Board. This board advises the President on intelligence issues.
Personal Life
Brad Wenstrup is Roman Catholic. He is married to Monica Wenstrup. They have two children, including a daughter they adopted in 2019.