Joe McDonald holds a foundation in photography, evidenced by his academic achievements and entrepreneurial endeavors. He spent several years in municipal governance, serving on the Delano city council and as mayor. McDonald's professional background includes a decade of managing institutional risk in high-finance, which he later transitioned into legislative roles. His leadership roles and policy stances reflect a commitment to economic stability, public service reform, and conservative fiscal policies.

Joe McDonald's political identity is marked by a blend of traditional values and selective progressiveness. He fiercely defends business interests, opposing noncompete clause bans and estate taxes, while simultaneously showing a nuanced approach to criminal justice by supporting felon voting rights but wanting a separate bill vote. His stance on liquor sales and Sunday openings reveals a socially conservative streak, yet he demonstrates ideological flexibility by supporting late-night bar hours during special events. McDonald's legislative record shows an unexpected convergence with opposing factions on environmental regulations, revealing a highly calculated approach to protecting regional industrial interests.