Dana Perino has established herself as a prominent figure in American media and politics. From her role as the White House Press Secretary under President George W. Bush to her current position as a co-anchor on Fox News, Perino’s career reflects dedication, resilience, and a commitment to public service.
Early Life and Education
Born on May 9, 1972, in Evanston, Wyoming, Dana Marie Perino was raised in Denver, Colorado. Her upbringing in a region known for its rugged landscapes perhaps instilled in her a sense of determination and independence. Perino’s educational journey began at Ponderosa High School in Parker, Colorado. She then pursued higher education at Colorado State University Pueblo, earning a bachelor’s degree in mass communications with minors in political science and Spanish. During her time there, she actively participated in the university’s forensics team and gained early media experience working at KTSC-TV, the campus-based Rocky Mountain PBS affiliate.
Eager to further her education, Perino obtained a master’s degree in public affairs reporting from the University of Illinois Springfield. While at UIS, she honed her journalism skills as a daily reporter covering the Illinois Capitol for WCIA, a CBS affiliate. This period marked the foundation of her career in political communication and journalism.
Entry into Political Communication
Perino’s professional journey in Washington, D.C., commenced with her role as a staff assistant for Congressman Scott McInnis (R-CO). Demonstrating a keen understanding of political processes and effective communication, she soon advanced to serve as the press secretary for Rep. Dan Schaefer (R-CO), the chairman of the House Commerce Subcommittee on Energy and Power. In this capacity, Perino managed media relations and developed communication strategies, laying the groundwork for her future roles in government.
Following Rep. Schaefer’s retirement in 1998, Perino and her husband, Peter McMahon, relocated to the United Kingdom. This international experience broadened her perspective on global affairs and communication strategies.
White House Tenure
In November 2001, Perino returned to Washington, D.C., and took on the role of spokesperson for the Department of Justice, serving for two years. Her exemplary performance led to her recruitment by the White House, where she assumed the position of associate director of communications for the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ). In this role, she provided strategic advice on message development, media relations, and public outreach concerning environmental policies.
Perino’s competence and dedication did not go unnoticed. She was appointed as Deputy Press Secretary in 2005, a role she held until 2007. During this time, she temporarily stepped in as Acting White House Press Secretary while Tony Snow underwent treatment for colon cancer. Her adept handling of press briefings and media interactions during this period showcased her capability to manage high-pressure situations with poise.
On September 14, 2007, Perino was officially appointed as the White House Press Secretary, becoming the second woman to hold this position after Dee Dee Myers served during the Clinton administration. As the principal spokesperson for the President and the White House, she navigated complex political landscapes and communicated critical information to the public and the press. Her tenure continued until the conclusion of the Bush administration in January 2009.
Transition to Media and Broadcasting
After her service in the White House, Perino transitioned to a career in media and broadcasting. In 2009, she joined Fox News as a political commentator, offering insights and analysis based on her extensive experience in government and communications. Her articulate commentary and balanced perspectives resonated with audiences, leading to her role as a co-host on “The Five,” a panel talk show discussing current political issues and pop culture.
In addition to her role on “The Five,” Perino expanded her presence on Fox News. On October 2, 2017, she began hosting “The Daily Briefing with Dana Perino,” a program focused on political analysis and interviews with newsmakers. Her ability to dissect complex issues and present them in an accessible manner garnered a dedicated viewership.
In early 2021, Perino further advanced her career by co-anchoring “America’s Newsroom” alongside Bill Hemmer. This role allowed her to engage with a broader audience, delivering news coverage and analysis on pressing national and international events.
Authorship and Mentorship
Beyond her roles in broadcasting, Perino is a published author. She has written several books, including:
- And the Good News Is…: Lessons and Advice from the Bright Side (2015): In this memoir, Perino shares personal anecdotes and professional experiences, offering readers insights into her life and career.
- Let Me Tell You about Jasper…: How My Best Friend Became America’s Dog (2016): This book provides a heartfelt look into her life with her Vizsla dog, Jasper, highlighting the joys and lessons of pet ownership.
- Everything Will Be Okay: Life Lessons for Young Women (from a Former Young Woman) (2021): Aimed at young women, this book offers guidance on navigating personal and professional challenges, drawing from Perino’s own experiences.
In addition to her writing, Perino is committed to mentorship. She co-founded “Minute Mentoring,” a program designed to offer professional guidance to young women starting their careers. Through this initiative, she connects seasoned professionals with mentees, fostering an environment of learning and growth.
Personal Life
Dana Perino’s personal life reflects her professional poise and commitment to family. In August 1997, she met Peter McMahon, a businessman from the United Kingdom, during a flight. Their connection was immediate, and they married in 1998. The couple has since navigated the challenges of public life together, maintaining a strong and supportive partnership.
Perino has a deep affection for dogs, particularly Vizslas. Her beloved dog, Jasper, often featured in her writings and social media posts, passed away on September 4, 2021. To honor Jasper’s memory and continue her passion for canine companionship, she welcomed another Vizsla named Percy into her family later that year.
Recent Developments
In May 2023, Perino was awarded an honorary doctorate of Humane Letters from Colorado State University Pueblo, her alma mater. This honor recognized her contributions to journalism, political communication, and her ongoing efforts in mentorship and public service.
Continuing her dynamic career, in August 2023, Perino launched a new podcast titled “Perino on Politics” on Fox News Radio. This platform allows her to delve deeper into political discussions, providing listeners with in-depth analysis and interviews with key figures in politics.
Demonstrating her respected position in political journalism, on August 30, 2023, Fox News Media announced that Perino would moderate the second GOP presidential primary debate on Fox Business, alongside Stuart Varney and Ilia Calderón. Her role as a moderator underscores her expertise and the trust placed in her to facilitate critical political discourse.
