Richard Baker graduated from Louisiana State University and founded a real estate agency before being elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives, where he served eight terms and chaired the Transportation Committee. He transitioned to the U.S. Congress, winning the 6th District seat in 1986 and consistently securing reelection until facing defeat in 1992 due to reapportionment. Throughout his congressional career, Baker held leadership roles in key committees, including the House Financial Services Capital Markets Subcommittee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

Richard Baker's political journey reveals a strategic adaptability, switching from Democrat to Republican due to personal disputes, yet maintaining a consistent focus on economic deregulation and infrastructure development. His legislative priorities often blend conservative fiscal policies with a surprising emphasis on enhancing veterans' services, showcasing an unexpected alignment of interests. Baker's rhetorical approach tends to frame economic growth through the lens of infrastructure investment, suggesting a deeply rooted belief in the symbiotic relationship between the two. His ability to navigate through significant redistricting challenges while maintaining electoral success highlights a highly localized, perhaps even idiosyncratic, political strategy.