Ann Marie Buerkle

Ann Marie Buerkle official photo

Ann Marie Buerkle (born May 8, 1951) is an American politician, attorney, and former nurse who served as a United States Representative for New York's 25th congressional district from 2011 to 2013. A member of the Republican Party, Buerkle is known for her conservative stance on various issues, including healthcare, taxation, and government spending.

Early Life and Education

Ann Marie Buerkle was born in Auburn, New York, to a family of modest means. She pursued her initial education in nursing, earning a nursing degree from St. Joseph's Hospital School of Nursing in Syracuse, New York. Buerkle's commitment to public service was evident early in her career, as she worked as a registered nurse and later as a healthcare attorney after earning her Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law.

Political Career

Buerkle's political career began in earnest when she was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2010 midterm elections, narrowly defeating incumbent Democrat Dan Maffei. Her victory was seen as part of the broader Tea Party movement wave that sought to challenge the status quo in Washington, D.C., advocating for reduced government spending and a more conservative approach to governance.

During her tenure in Congress, Buerkle served on several key committees, including the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, reflecting her interests in both international relations and issues affecting veterans. Buerkle was particularly vocal about her opposition to the Affordable Care Act, aligning with the Republican Party's efforts to repeal or modify the legislation.

In the 2012 election, Buerkle faced a rematch against Dan Maffei. The race was closely watched and highly competitive, but ultimately, Buerkle was unsuccessful in her bid for re-election.

Post-Congressional Career

After her time in Congress, Ann Marie Buerkle continued to be involved in public service and advocacy. In 2017, she was appointed by President Donald Trump as Acting Chairman of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), a position she held until her resignation in 2019. At the CPSC, Buerkle focused on consumer safety issues, including product recalls and safety standards.

Legacy and Impact

Ann Marie Buerkle's career in public service, spanning from nursing to politics and consumer safety advocacy, reflects her dedication to addressing the needs and concerns of Americans. Her tenure in Congress, though brief, was marked by her commitment to conservative principles, particularly in the areas of healthcare reform and fiscal responsibility.