Three ADPAC-supported member dentists reelected to Congress
One did not seek reelection
Three ADA members supported by the American Dental Political Action Committee were reelected to Congress Nov. 5. Incumbents include Reps. Brian Babin, D.D.S., R-Texas; Mike Simpson, D.M.D., R-Idaho; and Jeff Van Drew, D.M.D., R-N.J.
ADPAC supported the campaigns of the three candidates, all of whom are general dentists. As of Nov. 14, ADPAC’s total spending in the 2024 election cycle is $2,576,000.
Dr. Babin was elected to his 14th term in Congress with 69.4% of his district’s votes, Dr. Simpson won with 66.3% of the vote and Dr. Van Drew won with 58.4%.
Rep. Drew Ferguson, D.D.S., R-Ga., did not seek reelection and will be replaced by Brian Jack.
Dr. Babin shared on social media that he looks forward to working with Donald Trump, who was elected 47th president of the U.S., and J.D. Vance, who was elected vice president.
“Together, we will usher in a new Golden Age of America,” Dr. Babin wrote.
Dr. Simpson also took to social media to congratulate Mr. Trump on his victory, expressing support for the former president’s promise to secure borders, reduce regulations, achieve energy independence and provide tax relief.
“I am confident he will continue to create opportunity and security for all Americans, and I look forward to working with him to advance policies that benefit Idaho and strengthen our nation,” Dr. Simpson wrote.
ADPAC supported 329 candidates during the 2024 election cycle: 141 Democrats, one Independent and 187 Republicans. This included three dentists running in state races: Allen Reavis, D.D.S., R-Kan.; Jane Gillette, D.D.S., R-Mont.; and John Gibbons, D.M.D. Dr. Reavis was elected to the Kansas House of Representatives and Dr. Gillette was elected to the Montana House of Representatives. Dr. Gibbons lost the primary election for the Washington House of Representatives.
The 119th Congress is scheduled to convene Jan. 3, 2025.
Follow all the ADA’s advocacy efforts at ADA.org/Advocacy.
