Representative John LeBoutillier

John LeBoutillier (born May 26, 1953) is an American political columnist, pundit, and former Republican member of the United States House of Representatives from New York. Over the course of a varied public career, he has been active in electoral politics, national policy debates, and media commentary, gaining prominence at a relatively young age through his service in Congress and later as a commentator on political affairs.

LeBoutillier was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1980, at the age of twenty-seven, representing New York’s 6th Congressional District. In that election he defeated 16-year incumbent Lester L. Wolff, a notable upset that made him the youngest member of the 97th Congress. A member of the Republican Party, he served one term in the House from 1981 to 1983, during a significant period in American history marked by the early years of the Reagan administration, heightened Cold War tensions, and shifting domestic economic policies.

During his tenure in Congress, LeBoutillier contributed to the legislative process as part of the House Republican Conference and represented the interests of his New York constituents in national debates. He served on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, where he participated in deliberations on U.S. foreign policy at a time of global realignment and ongoing conflicts. He was also a member of the Special House POW/MIA Task Force, reflecting his involvement in efforts to account for American prisoners of war and those missing in action, particularly in the context of the Vietnam War’s aftermath.

LeBoutillier’s service in Congress occurred during a period of significant political and ideological change in Washington, and he took part in the broader democratic process as the House considered major issues of defense, diplomacy, and economic policy. His single term coincided with the 97th Congress, during which he engaged in committee work, floor debates, and constituent services, helping to shape and respond to the legislative agenda of the early 1980s.

Following redistricting in 1982, LeBoutillier’s political landscape changed when the boundaries of his district were redrawn. He sought re-election that year in New York’s 3rd Congressional District but was unsuccessful, losing to Democrat Robert J. Mrazek. His formal congressional service concluded on January 3, 1983, after one term in office, but he remained active in public life and political discourse.

In the years after leaving Congress, LeBoutillier built a career as a political columnist and pundit, frequently commenting on national politics, campaigns, and public policy. Drawing on his experience as a former member of the House of Representatives, he became a recognizable voice in media discussions of congressional affairs and the internal dynamics of the Republican Party. Through his writing and appearances, he continued to participate in the national conversation on governance and political strategy, extending his influence beyond his brief but notable tenure in elective office.