Robert J. Bentley

Robert Bentley (cropped)

Robert J. Bentley.jpg

Robert Julian Bentley (born February 3, 1943) is an American politician and physician who served as the 53rd Governor of Alabama from 2011 to 2017. A member of the Republican Party, Bentley was elected governor in 2010 and re-elected in 2014. He resigned on April 10, 2017, amid allegations of ethical and legal violations.

Early life and education

Bentley was born in Columbiana, Alabama, and graduated from Shelby County High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry and biology from the University of Alabama in 1964. He then attended the University of Alabama School of Medicine, where he received his M.D. in 1968.

Medical career

After completing his medical degree, Bentley served as a captain in the United States Air Force from 1969 to 1975. Following his military service, he completed his residency in dermatology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Bentley established a successful dermatology practice in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where he became a prominent member of the medical community. He also served as president of the Alabama Dermatology Society and was a member of the American Academy of Dermatology.

Political career

Bentley entered politics in 2002 when he was elected to the Alabama House of Representatives, representing the 63rd district. During his tenure, he focused on healthcare issues and was a member of several committees, including the Health Committee and the Ways and Means Education Committee.

Governorship

Bentley announced his candidacy for governor in 2009 and won the Republican primary runoff against Bradley Byrne. He went on to defeat Democrat Ron Sparks in the general election. Bentley was re-elected in 2014, defeating Democrat Parker Griffith.

As governor, Bentley focused on job creation, education reform, and healthcare. He signed several significant pieces of legislation, including the Alabama Accountability Act and the Alabama Jobs Act. However, his tenure was marred by controversy, including allegations of misuse of state resources and an extramarital affair with a senior advisor.

Resignation

On April 10, 2017, Bentley resigned from office as part of a plea agreement related to campaign finance and ethics violations. He was succeeded by Kay Ivey, who was serving as lieutenant governor at the time.

Personal life

Bentley was married to Dianne Bentley for 50 years before their divorce in 2015. They have four children together. Bentley is a member of the First Baptist Church of Tuscaloosa and has been involved in various community service activities.

See also

• List of governors of Alabama
• 2010 Alabama gubernatorial election
• 2014 Alabama gubernatorial election