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Rick Perry
Texas

Gov. Rick Perry

  • December 21, 2000 - January 20, 2015
  • Republican
  • March 4, 1950
  • Texas
  • Texas A&M University
  • Married Anita Perry; two children
  • Succeeded
  • Cabinet secretary
  • Air Force

About

Rick Perry was sworn in as the 47th governor of Texas on December 21, 2000. He was elected to a four-year term in November 2002 and reelected in 2006 and 2010.

Perry has led a life of public service, starting in the United States Air Force and continuing over two decades in elected office. His political career began in 1985 as a representative for a rural West Texas district in the state House of Representatives. Beginning in 1990, he served two terms as Texas Commissioner of Agriculture. Between 1972 and 1977, Perry served in the United States Air Force, flying C-130 tactical airlift aircraft in the U.S., Europe and the Middle East.

Perry’s administration focused on improving education, securing the border and increasing economic development.

Perry is a Texas A&M University graduate where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets, a junior and senior yell leader and an animal science major. Perry is an Eagle Scout and lifetime member of American Legion Post #75. He and his wife, Anita, have two children, Griffin and Sydney.

Recent Texas Governors