Pete Buttigieg Then and Now

Pete Buttigieg Then

Pete Buttigieg, born on January 19, 1982, in South Bend, Indiana, is a prominent political figure known for his diverse academic and professional background. 

As the only child of Joseph and Jennifer Anne Buttigieg, Pete grew up in a household deeply influenced by his father’s academic career as a literature professor at the University of Notre Dame. 

His Maltese father, who once studied to be a Jesuit priest, instilled in him a strong appreciation for education and public service. 

Meanwhile, his mother’s family has long-standing roots in Indiana, contributing to his connection to the community he would later serve as mayor.

Buttigieg excelled academically from a young age, attending St. Joseph High School in South Bend, where he was valedictorian of the class of 2000. 

His talent for writing and political thought was recognized when he won the prestigious John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum’s Profiles in Courage essay contest, where he highlighted the integrity of U.S. Representative Bernie Sanders. 

This early success paved the way for his admission to Harvard University, where he majored in history and literature, and later graduated Phi Beta Kappa in 2004. 

His undergraduate thesis, which explored the influence of Puritanism on U.S. foreign policy through Graham Greene’s The Quiet American, showcased his analytical abilities and deep interest in the intersection of history and politics. 

During his time at Harvard, he also served as president of the Student Advisory Committee of the Harvard Institute of Politics, emphasizing his commitment to engaging youth in political discourse.

After graduating from Harvard, Buttigieg furthered his education at Pembroke College, Oxford, where he earned a B.A. with first-class honors in philosophy, politics, and economics in 2007. 

Related Article: Greg Abbott Then and Now

At Oxford, he not only excelled academically but also demonstrated leadership skills as the editor of the Oxford International Review and as a co-founder of the Democratic Renaissance Project. 

His early career included positions as an investigative intern at NBC News in Chicago and as a consultant at McKinsey & Company, where he worked on projects related to energy, retail, and economic development. 

His involvement in various Democratic campaigns further solidified his commitment to public service and political engagement.

In addition to his academic and professional endeavors, Buttigieg’s dedication to serving his country became evident when he joined the U.S. Navy Reserve in September 2009 as an ensign in naval intelligence. 

Related Article: Gavin Newsom Then and Now

His commitment to public service took him to Afghanistan in 2014, where he took a seven-month leave from his role as Mayor of South Bend to deploy and assist in efforts to disrupt terrorist financing networks. 

His experiences in the military not only broadened his worldview but also equipped him with skills and perspectives that would inform his later political career. 

Buttigieg’s honorable discharge from the U.S. Navy Reserve in 2017 and his receipt of the Joint Service Commendation Medal highlight his commitment to serving both his country and his community, reinforcing his role as a leader dedicated to the betterment of society.

Related Article: Andrew Cuomo Then and Now

Pete Buttigieg’s Political Career

After an unsuccessful bid for the Indiana State Treasurer position in 2010, Pete Buttigieg began his significant political journey as the 32nd Mayor of South Bend, Indiana, in January 2012. 

At just 29 years old, he made history by becoming the youngest mayor of any U.S. city with a population of over 100,000 residents, and the second-youngest mayor in South Bend’s history. 

During his tenure, Buttigieg focused on revitalizing the city and tackling issues such as economic development, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement. 

Related Article: Ron DeSantis Then and Now

His leadership and commitment to his constituents earned him a resounding victory in November 2015, where he was re-elected for a second term with over 80% of the vote, demonstrating his strong popularity and effectiveness as mayor. 

However, in December 2018, he announced that he would not seek a third term, choosing instead to pursue broader political ambitions.

Buttigieg’s national profile grew significantly as he entered the race for the Democratic Party’s nomination in the 2020 presidential election. 

Related Article: Stacey Abrams Then and Now

His campaign focused on a vision of inclusive progressivism, emphasizing universal healthcare, gun control measures such as universal background checks, support for labor unions, and protections for the LGBT community through federal legislation. 

He also advocated for aggressive action on climate change and expressed strong support for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, aiming to protect undocumented immigrants who arrived in the U.S. as children. 

Related Article: Adam Schiff Then and Now

Buttigieg’s candidacy resonated with a diverse range of voters, positioning him as a fresh voice within the Democratic Party. 

Ultimately, he stepped aside and endorsed Joe Biden, demonstrating his commitment to party unity and the importance of defeating the incumbent president.

When Joe Biden won the presidency in 2020, he recognized Buttigieg’s talents and experience by nominating him to serve as Secretary of Transportation. 

Related Article: Kevin McCarthy Then and Now

This appointment marked a significant milestone in Buttigieg’s career, placing him in a crucial role in influencing the future of transportation policy in the United States. 

As Secretary of Transportation, Buttigieg’s responsibilities include overseeing the nation’s infrastructure, addressing transportation safety, and implementing initiatives to combat climate change through sustainable transportation solutions. 

His work in this role reflects his ongoing commitment to public service and the pursuit of policies that benefit all Americans, further solidifying his status as a key player in the current administration.

Related Article: Lindsey Graham Then and Now

Pete Buttigieg Wife and Children

In 2018, Pete Buttigieg married Chasten Glezman, a dedicated teacher and advocate for education, who took Pete’s surname upon their marriage. 

Their relationship has often been highlighted as a partnership rooted in mutual support and shared values, particularly in their commitment to public service and community engagement. 

In 2021, the couple expanded their family by adopting twins, Joseph August, affectionately known as “Gus,” and Penelope Rose. 

Related Article: Elizabeth Warren Then and Now

This new chapter in their lives reflects their desire to create a loving and nurturing environment for their children, while also showcasing Buttigieg’s commitment to family values. 

The adoption of Gus and Penelope has been a significant aspect of their journey together, illustrating their dedication not only to their personal family life but also to advocating for policies that support families and children across the nation. 

As parents, Buttigieg and Chasten continue to balance their public responsibilities with their roles as caregivers, embodying a modern family dynamic that resonates with many Americans.

Related Article: Joe Biden Then and Now

Pete Buttigieg Now

As of now, Pete Buttigieg is 42 years old and is an influential American politician and former naval officer currently serving as the 19th United States Secretary of Transportation. 

A member of the Democratic Party, he gained national recognition during his tenure as the 32nd mayor of South Bend, Indiana, from 2012 to 2020, which earned him the affectionate nickname “Mayor Pete.” 

His time as mayor was marked by a focus on urban renewal, infrastructure improvements, and fostering community engagement, which helped to revitalize South Bend and enhance its appeal as a vibrant city.

Related Article: Bernie Sanders Then and Now

Buttigieg’s diverse background as a naval officer further distinguished him as a leader. 

He served in the U.S. Navy Reserve, where he was commissioned as an ensign in naval intelligence and later deployed to Afghanistan. 

This military experience not only provided him with a unique perspective on national security and international relations but also underscored his commitment to public service. 

Related Article: Ted Cruz Then and Now

His ability to navigate complex issues was further demonstrated during his campaign for the Democratic nomination in the 2020 presidential election, where he advocated for progressive policies on healthcare, climate change, and civil rights.

Following Joe Biden’s election as president, Buttigieg was appointed Secretary of Transportation, a role in which he is responsible for overseeing the nation’s transportation systems, promoting infrastructure development, and addressing challenges such as climate change through sustainable transportation initiatives. 

Related Article: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Then and Now

His leadership in this position is pivotal as the U.S. seeks to modernize its infrastructure and improve transportation equity. 

With his blend of political acumen and military discipline, Buttigieg continues to play a vital role in shaping transportation policy and promoting an inclusive vision for America’s future.

Related Article: Mitch McConnell Then and Now

Pete Buttigieg Net Worth

Pete Buttigieg, an American politician with a net worth of $500,000, is a Harvard University graduate and served in the United States Navy Reserve from 2009 to 2017, showcasing his commitment to both education and public service.

Related Article: Chuck Schumer Then and Now

FAQs