From the Skies to Public Service
Born in Amarillo, Texas, John Kevin "Jake" Ellzey decided he wanted to be a fighter pilot at age seven. He fulfilled that dream after graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1992 with a degree in political science. His 20-year career in the U.S. Navy was extensive, serving as a helicopter and fighter pilot, flying F-14 Tomcats and F/A-18 Super Hornets. Ellzey completed nine deployments, including five combat tours over Iraq and Afghanistan, and logged over 800 carrier landings. In a notable ground tour, he was embedded with SEAL Team 5 in Iraq. His military honors include two Bronze Stars and eight Air Medals. After retiring from the Navy with the rank of Commander, his final role being Air Boss on the USS Ronald Reagan, Ellzey transitioned
to civilian life, working as a commercial airline pilot for Southwest Airlines and as a consultant.
First Steps in Texas Politics
Ellzey's entry into public life began after his military service. He was appointed by then-Governor Rick Perry to serve as a commissioner for the Texas Veterans Commission, a role he held from 2012 to 2018. This position allowed him to work on behalf of the state's large veteran population. His first bid for federal office came in 2018, when he ran for the very congressional seat he now holds. He placed second in the Republican primary to Ron Wright, who went on to win the general election. Undeterred, Ellzey ran for and won a seat in the Texas House of Representatives in 2020, representing District 10. He served a brief but eventful tenure in the state legislature, which began in January 2021.
A Contentious Special Election Victory
The unexpected death of Congressman Ron Wright in February 2021, just weeks into his term, triggered a special election for Texas's 6th district. Ellzey entered a crowded field of 23 candidates. In the initial nonpartisan primary, he finished second behind Susan Wright, the late congressman's widow, who had secured the high-profile endorsement of former President Donald Trump. The two Republicans advanced to a runoff. In what was widely seen as an upset, Ellzey defeated Wright in the July 2021 runoff with 53% of the vote. His victory was notable for overcoming a Trump-backed candidate, drawing support from establishment Republicans like former Governor Rick Perry and Congressman Dan Crenshaw. He was sworn into office on July 30, 2021, resigning his state house seat to serve in the U.S. Congress.
Record and Priorities in Congress
In Washington, Congressman Ellzey has focused on national defense, veterans' issues, and fiscal policy, representing a solidly Republican district that covers several counties south and east of the Dallas-Fort Worth area. He serves on the powerful House Appropriations Committee, which is responsible for allocating federal spending. His subcommittee assignments include key panels on Defense; Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education; and the Interior and Environment. He also serves on the Committee on Small Business. His voting record reflects a conservative stance, earning high ratings from groups like the American Conservative Union and Turning Point Action. Notably, he voted against the PACT Act, which expanded benefits for veterans exposed to toxic burn pits, but has cosponsored bills related to abortion restrictions and has been a vocal supporter of Israel. His policy positions align with mainstream Republican priorities, emphasizing support for small businesses and responsible government spending.
