Mike Pence | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : March 19, 2025

Who is Mike Pence?

Former Vice President Mike Pence, born on June 7, 1959, in Columbus, Indiana, is a prominent American politician known for his conservative values and dedication to the Republican Party. Pence began his career as a radio and television talk show host in the 1990s before successfully running for a U.S. congressional seat in 2000. Rising through the ranks, he served six terms in Congress and was known for taking principled stands, even opposing some policies from within his own party. In 2012, he was elected Governor of Indiana, where he implemented significant tax cuts and worked to improve state infrastructure before being chosen as Donald Trump’s vice presidential running mate in 2016.

As vice president, Pence played a crucial role in the Trump administration, supporting policies that aligned with his conservative beliefs while navigating complex political landscapes. He was instrumental during the COVID-19 pandemic response and was the first vice president in history to cast a tie-breaking vote in a cabinet nomination. Pence's time in office was marked by his unwavering loyalty to Trump, even as he faced challenges, including the political ramifications surrounding Trump’s impeachments and the events of January 6, 2021. After leaving office, Pence has continued to be an active voice in conservative politics, sharing his experiences through a memoir while briefly campaigning for the 2024 presidency before suspending his campaign.

Early Life and Education

Michael Richard Pence was born on June 7, 1959, in Columbus, Indiana, into a large family as one of six children. Growing up in a modest household, his father, Edward Pence, was a U.S. Army veteran who operated a series of gas stations, while his mother, Nancy, instilled in him the values of hard work and community service. Influenced by his Irish Catholic roots, Mike was politically active from a young age, even volunteering for the Bartholomew County Democratic Party during high school. However, his political beliefs evolved over time, leading him eventually toward the Republican Party.

His college years played a crucial role in shaping Pence’s identity. Attending Hanover College, he underwent a religious transformation, becoming a "born-again Evangelical Catholic." This spiritual awakening coincided with a shift in his political ideology, as he started leaning towards the conservative values championed by Ronald Reagan. Graduating with a bachelor’s degree in history in 1981, Pence pursued further education at the Indiana University McKinney School of Law, where he earned his juris doctor in 1986, laying the foundation for his future political career.

Early Professional Career

Michael Richard Pence, who served as U.S. Vice President under Donald Trump from 2017 to 2021, began his professional career in law and politics after graduating from the Indiana University McKinney School of Law in 1986. Initially, he worked in private practice while also engaging in grassroots politics as a precinct committeeman for the Marion County Republican Party. His early political aspirations took shape through two unsuccessful runs for Congress in 1988 and 1990 against Democrat Phil Sharp. These defeats, however, enriched his understanding of the political landscape and led him to reflect on his approach to campaigning, as evidenced by his essay "Confessions of a Negative Campaigner."

After gaining some notoriety as a conservative radio talk show host with “The Mike Pence Show,” he successfully ran for Congress in 2000, securing a seat in the House of Representatives. Pence quickly established himself as a principled, yet often contentious figure within the Republican Party, known for his stance on fiscal conservatism and social issues. He opposed key policies from his own party, including President George W. Bush’s No Child Left Behind Act and Medicare expansion, which only served to enhance his reputation as a man of strong convictions. This willingness to stand up against prevailing party lines dovetailed with his ascent in leadership roles, reflecting his media-savvy approach and ability to communicate his conservative values effectively.

U.S. Congressman

Mike Pence's political career took a significant turn in 2000 when he successfully ran for Congress, representing Indiana's 2nd congressional district. His election was characterized by a commitment to conservative principles, which he framed as "a Christian, a conservative, and a Republican, in that order." Soon after taking office, Pence showcased his willingness to challenge party conventions, notably opposing key initiatives like President George W. Bush's No Child Left Behind policy and the Medicare prescription drug expansion. These stances helped solidify his reputation as a principled politician unafraid to stand up for his beliefs, earning him reelection five times.

During his tenure in Congress, Pence ascended the ranks of Republican leadership, being elected chair of the Republican Study Committee in 2005. While he faced defeat in his bid to become minority leader in 2006, he was later unanimously selected as the Republican conference chairman in 2008. A staunch fiscal conservative, Pence vocalized his opposition to the federal government bailout during the 2008 financial crisis and made headlines for his efforts to defund Planned Parenthood in 2011. His tenure in Congress established him as a formidable voice within the party and laid the groundwork for his future political ambitions, including his subsequent role as Governor of Indiana and later, Vice President of the United States.

Indiana Governor

In 2011, Mike Pence announced his intention to run for the governorship of Indiana, leveraging his strong name recognition and established platform focusing on tax cuts, job growth, and fiscal responsibility. In the gubernatorial race, he faced a vigorous challenge from Democrat John Gregg but ultimately triumphed in a tightly contested election, securing just under 50% of the vote. His victory marked a significant transition from his congressional career, as he shifted from federal policymaking to implementing state-level initiatives.

Pence's tenure as governor was characterized by ambitious fiscal policies, including the signing of a $1.1 billion tax cut—the largest in Indiana's history—and the introduction of the state’s first pre-K funding program, which aimed at improving early childhood education. Under his leadership, Indiana experienced a substantial budget surplus and earned a triple-A credit rating, highlighting the success of his economic strategies. However, his governorship was not without controversy, particularly regarding the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which he signed in 2015, sparking a national debate over LGBTQ rights and business practices in the state.

Despite encountering criticism during his time in office, Pence maintained a robust following in conservative circles, which ultimately set the stage for his selection as Donald Trump's vice-presidential running mate in the 2016 election. His governorship allowed him to solidify connections with influential political players and further shape his conservative credentials, leading to a significant role in national politics.

Donald Trump’s Running Mate and 2016 Election

In July 2016, Mike Pence emerged as a key figure in the presidential race when he was selected as the vice presidential candidate for Donald Trump. Despite some ideological differences, Pence was seen as a strategic choice for Trump, providing a bridge to congressional leaders and earning the trust of conservative voters. Traditionally an advocate for a strong conservative agenda, Pence brought significant political experience to the ticket, having served as both a U.S. Congressman and Governor of Indiana. His acceptance of the nomination at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland marked a pivotal moment as he promised to support Trump’s vision for America with clarity and conviction.

Pence’s selection was met with mixed reviews within the political landscape. While some proponents praised his background and integrity as a staunch conservative, critics noted his past disagreements with Trump’s positions, particularly regarding foreign policy and trade. Nonetheless, as the campaign progressed, Pence embraced his role as a loyal running mate. He participated extensively in rallies and public engagements, helping to galvanize support for the ticket. This partnership ultimately culminated in a remarkable victory on November 8, 2016, when Trump and Pence defeated the Democratic challenger Hillary Clinton, marking a significant moment in U.S. political history. Their win signified a powerful shift in American politics, driven largely by grassroots support from working-class voters disillusioned with the political establishment.

U.S. Vice President

Mike Pence served as the 48th Vice President of the United States from January 20, 2017, to January 20, 2021, under President Donald Trump. He was born on June 7, 1959, in Columbus, Indiana, and had a multifaceted career prior to his vice presidency, including roles as a congressman and governor of Indiana. Known for his strong conservative convictions, Pence played a critical role in supporting the Trump administration's policies and initiatives, from social issues to economic agendas. His tenure was marked by significant events, including leading the national response to the COVID-19 pandemic and navigating two impeachment trials involving President Trump.

As vice president, Pence was known for his loyalty to Trump and his efforts to maintain a solid relationship with key members of Congress. He cast a historic tie-breaking vote confirming Betsy DeVos as Education Secretary, highlighting his pivotal role in the administration. Pence faced considerable challenges, including the fallout from Trump's controversial policies and actions, particularly concerning immigration and foreign relations. His vice presidency reached a dramatic climax on January 6, 2021, during the Capitol riot, where he reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the Constitution, ultimately certifying Joe Biden's Electoral College victory amid tremendous political pressure.

Wife and Children

Mike Pence has been married to Karen Pence since 1985. The couple met in the early 1980s, during their time at Hanover College in Indiana. Karen, a former elementary school teacher, is deeply involved in youth-related nonprofit organizations. She has often taken on the role of a supportive partner, engaging in various initiatives that align with their shared conservative values. Karen is also known for her commitment to education and advocacy for military families, which resonates with their strong sense of community and family.

Together, Mike and Karen Pence have three adult children: Michael, Charlotte, and Audrey. The family shares a close-knit relationship, often showcasing their family bonds during Pence's public appearances. In May 2021, they purchased a home in Carmel, Indiana, which is just north of Indianapolis. Their family life has been grounded in shared values, and the Pences have emphasized the importance of faith and familial support throughout their lives.

Net Worth and Earning

Mike Pence's net worth is estimated to be around $1 million to $2 million, a figure that reflects his long political career and various roles in public service. His earnings have come from multiple sources, including his salary as Vice President, income from his tenure as Governor of Indiana, and both his congressional service and broadcasting career. During his time in Congress, Pence earned an annual salary of $174,000, which increased during his vice presidency to approximately $235,000. These positions have not only provided him with a stable income but have also bolstered his public profile, leading to subsequent opportunities in speaking engagements and book deals.

In 2022, Pence signed a lucrative two-book deal reportedly worth several million dollars with Simon & Schuster, marking a significant post-political earnings opportunity. His memoir, "So Help Me God", released in November 2022, covers his experiences during the Trump administration and his storied political journey. Additionally, Pence's involvement in various speaking events and lectures further adds to his income, allowing him to maintain a respectable net worth even after concluding his term as Vice President. Overall, while his net worth may not be as high as some of his contemporaries, it reflects a successful career in both politics and media.