Research Profile
Richard Brattin: Candidate Profile for Missouri's 5th Congressional District, 2026
Background and Career History
Richard Ray Brattin Jr., commonly known as Rick Brattin, was born on July 22, 1980. He has served as a Missouri State Senator representing District 31 since January 6, 2021, after being elected in 2020 (Missouri Senate, Wikipedia). Prior to his legislative role, Brattin worked as an auditor for Cass County, Missouri, and is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran with six years of military service (Ballotpedia, Rick Brattin for Congress). He holds a PhD in information systems from Missouri State University, where he is also an associate professor in the Information Technology and Cybersecurity department (Missouri State University).
Political Positions and Campaign Platform
Brattin is a staunch conservative aligned with the Republican Party. His campaign for the 2026 U.S. House seat in Missouri's 5th district emphasizes fiscal conservatism, limited government, and traditional social values. Endorsed by the Club for Growth PAC, he advocates for free-market policies, lower taxes, and reduced government regulation, especially in healthcare and education sectors (Club for Growth).
While explicit detailed policy proposals are limited in the available sources, Brattin's campaign emphasizes cutting wasteful government spending, opposing expansion of federal healthcare programs, and promoting school choice and local control over education (PredictionEdge). His public statements and endorsements suggest he favors deregulation, supports strong national defense, and aligns with traditional conservative social policies.
Notable News Coverage
Brattin's political career has been marked by active campaign efforts and some controversies. He announced his candidacy for Missouri's 5th Congressional District in early 2026, positioning himself as a leading conservative challenger against incumbent Congressman Emanuel Cleaver. His campaign has received notable endorsements, including from Governor Mike Kehoe, and has gained attention within GOP circles (Missouri Independent, The Missouri Times).
Brattin's campaign has been characterized by aggressive strategies, including launching a challenge against Cleaver and engaging in contentious political debates over redistricting and election integrity. He has been a controversial figure, with some opinion pieces criticizing his political tactics and potential risks to GOP majorities (The Missouri Times).
He publicly advocates for election integrity and has made statements emphasizing conservative priorities such as reducing inflation and opposing what he perceives as government overreach (YouTube). His campaign and political activities continue to attract media attention, reflecting his prominent role in Missouri's 2026 electoral landscape.
Summary
Richard Brattin is a well-established Republican politician with a military background and academic credentials, actively campaigning for Missouri's 5th Congressional District in 2026. His platform is rooted in conservative fiscal policies, limited government, and traditional social values. His campaign has been marked by strategic endorsements, active campaigning, and some controversy, positioning him as a significant contender in the upcoming election.