Mark Kennedy was the third Republican attempting to unseat Rep. David Minge since he was elected in 1992. But Kennedy was the first to succeed. His campaign slogan, "Kennedy Means Business," encapsulates his long career as a business executive. It also trickles down to issues he is pressing in his campaign.

He is in favor of opening foreign markets, which he contends will boost earnings for farmers and help other businesses thrive. In addition, he wants to reduce capital gains taxes and eliminate inheritance taxes, which he argues are making it tougher for farmers and business owners to pass their assets to future generations. Like other Republicans, he also wants to get rid of the so-called marriage penalty.

Kennedy has focused much of his time on agriculture issues. He serves on the Agriculture and Transportation & Infrastructure committees.