American businessman and politician who served as the 49th United States Secretary of the Interior, overseeing national parks, wildlife refuges, and natural resources. He's known for his environmental policies and conservation efforts.
Dirk Kempthorne, a seasoned politician and stalwart of the Republican Party, is best known for his tenure as the 49th United States Secretary of the Interior under President George W. Bush from 2006 to 2009. Prior to this, he served as a United States Senator from Idaho from 1993 to 1999 and as the 30th Governor of Idaho from 1999 to 2006.
Born on October 29, 1951, in San Bernardino, California, Kempthorne graduated from San Gorgonio High School in 1969. He later attended San Bernardino Valley College before transferring to the University of Idaho, where he earned a degree in political science in 1975. During his time at the University of Idaho, Kempthorne served as student body president.
Kempthorne's entry into politics came in 1982, when he managed the gubernatorial campaign for Lieutenant Governor Phil Batt. Although the campaign was unsuccessful, it marked the beginning of Kempthorne's own political journey. In 1985, he was elected Mayor of Boise, Idaho, a position he held for seven years. His popularity and effective governance earned him an unopposed re-election in 1989.
In 1992, Kempthorne won the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Steve Symms. He went on to defeat Democratic U.S. Representative Richard H. Stallings in the general election, becoming the first Republican to represent Idaho in the Senate since 1949. Kempthorne served two terms in the Senate, from 1993 to 1999, before resigning to run for Governor of Idaho. He won the gubernatorial election in 1998 and served two terms as Governor, from 1999 to 2006.
In 2006, President George W. Bush nominated Kempthorne as the 49th United States Secretary of the Interior. Kempthorne was confirmed by the Senate and served in this role until 2009. During his tenure, he focused on promoting conservation, increasing access to public lands, and improving the management of natural resources.
After leaving government service, Kempthorne became a co-chair of the Democracy Project at the Bipartisan Policy Center. In 2010, he was appointed President and CEO of the American Council of Life Insurers, a position he still holds today.
Kempthorne is married to Patricia Kempthorne, a fellow University of Idaho graduate. The couple has two adult children, Heather and Jeff. Dirk Kempthorne is of Cornish ancestry.
Throughout his career, Dirk Kempthorne has demonstrated a commitment to public service and leadership. His experiences in local, state, and federal government have equipped him with a unique understanding of the complexities of governance and the importance of effective policy-making.
79 Years Old
The 43rd President of the United States, a Republican leader who launched wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and implemented significant tax cuts. He's also known for his response to the 9/11 attacks.
85 Years Old
The 46th Vice President of the United States, a powerful and influential figure in American politics, known for his strong conservative stance and role in shaping the country's foreign policy during the War on Terror.
71 Years Old
The first African American woman to serve as Secretary of State, she played a crucial role in shaping US foreign policy during a tumultuous period, earning her a lasting legacy in international relations.
93 Years Old
The 13th United States Secretary of Defense, a high-ranking government official, oversaw the US military during the Iraq War and was known for his controversial decisions and quotes. He's infamous for his "known unknowns" phrase.
75 Years Old
A mastermind behind Republican political campaigns, credited with shaping the party's strategy and helping George W. Bush win two presidential elections.
79 Years Old
A former House Majority Leader, known for his strong conservative stance and involvement in high-profile political scandals.
76 Years Old
The 53rd Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, serving from 2011 to 2015, known for his conservative politics and role in shaping US policy during the Obama presidency.
84 Years Old
A seasoned politician who served as the Senate Majority Leader, known for his influential role in shaping US politics and legislation.
