Howard Dean

Howard Dean 2017 (cropped)

Howard Dean DNC.jpg Dean in 2006

Howard Brush Dean III (born November 17, 1948) is an American physician, author, and retired politician who served as the 79th Governor of Vermont from 1991 to 2003 and as the Chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) from 2005 to 2009. Dean was a candidate for the Democratic nomination in the 2004 United States presidential election.

Early life and education

Dean was born in East Hampton, New York, to Andree Belden Dean and Howard Brush Dean, Jr. He attended St. George's School in Middletown, Rhode Island, and later graduated from Yale University with a Bachelor of Arts in political science in 1971. He earned his medical degree from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in 1978.

Medical career

After completing his medical degree, Dean worked as a general practitioner in Shelburne, Vermont. He also served as an internist at the University of Vermont Medical Center.

Political career

Vermont House of Representatives

Dean began his political career in the Vermont House of Representatives, serving from 1983 to 1987.

Lieutenant Governor of Vermont

In 1986, Dean was elected as the 75th Lieutenant Governor of Vermont, serving under Governor Madeleine Kunin from 1987 to 1991.

Governor of Vermont

Dean became the 79th Governor of Vermont in 1991 following the death of Governor Richard A. Snelling. He was subsequently elected to five two-year terms, serving until 2003. As governor, Dean was known for his fiscal conservatism and efforts to expand healthcare coverage.

2004 Presidential campaign

Dean gained national attention during his campaign for the 2004 Democratic presidential nomination. His campaign was noted for its innovative use of the internet to organize supporters and raise funds. Despite early success, Dean's campaign faltered after a poor showing in the Iowa caucuses and the widely publicized "Dean Scream" incident.

Chair of the Democratic National Committee

Dean served as the Chair of the Democratic National Committee from 2005 to 2009. During his tenure, he implemented the "50-state strategy," which aimed to build the Democratic Party's presence in all 50 states.

Post-political career

After leaving the DNC, Dean has remained active in politics and public speaking. He has also worked as a consultant and commentator.

Personal life

Dean is married to Judith Steinberg Dean, a fellow physician. They have two children.

See also

• List of governors of Vermont
• 2004 Democratic Party presidential primaries
• Democratic National Committee