Phil Bryant

Phil Bryant is an American politician who served as the 64th Governor of Mississippi from 2012 to 2020. He is a member of the Republican Party.

Early life and education

Bryant was born in Moorhead, Mississippi on December 9, 1954. He graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice in 1977. He later earned a Master of Political Science from Mississippi College in 1988.

Political career

Bryant began his political career as a deputy sheriff in Hinds County, Mississippi. He then served as a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives from 1992 to 1996. He was elected Mississippi State Auditor in 1996 and served in that position until 2008.

In 2008, Bryant was elected Lieutenant Governor of Mississippi, a position he held until 2012. In 2011, he ran for the governorship of Mississippi and won, taking office in January 2012. He was re-elected in 2015 and served until January 2020.

As governor, Bryant focused on issues such as economic development, education reform, and healthcare. He also signed several controversial bills into law, including the Religious Liberty Accommodations Act and the Mississippi Broadband Enabling Act.

Personal life

Bryant is married to Deborah Hays Bryant, and they have two children. He is a member of the Baptist faith.

See also

• Politics of Mississippi
• List of Governors of Mississippi