Van Orden, Derrick

Derrick Van Orden is a Republican Representative from Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District, first entering Congress in January 2023. Born on September 15, 1969, he was raised in rural poverty and joined the U.S. Navy at age 18. He served for 26 years, retiring as a Navy SEAL Senior Chief with five combat deployments. Before his legislative career, he was also a small business owner, author, and actor, appearing in the film Act of Valor.

In the House, Van Orden utilizes his military and rural background through assignments on the Agriculture, Armed Services, and Veterans' Affairs Committees. He holds leadership roles as the Chair of the Economic Opportunity Subcommittee for Veterans' Affairs and Vice Chair of the Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Subcommittee. His policy work emphasizes fiscal responsibility, support for the dairy industry, and improving services for former servicemembers.

His legislative priorities include the AG VETS Act and the Warriors to Workforce Act, which aim to transition veterans into agricultural and professional careers. He has also sponsored the Veterans Readiness and Employment Improvement Act of 2025. Throughout his tenure, Van Orden has remained a vocal advocate for the interests of southwestern Wisconsin's farmers and military families.