Trent Lott

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Chester Trent Lott Sr. (born October 9, 1941) is an American politician who served as a United States Senator from Mississippi from 1989 to 2007. A member of the Republican Party, he also served in the United States House of Representatives from 1973 to 1989. Lott held several leadership positions in the Senate, including Senate Majority Leader and Senate Minority Leader.

Early life and education

Lott was born in Grenada, Mississippi. He attended the University of Mississippi, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in public administration in 1963 and a Juris Doctor in 1967. During his time at the university, he was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity.

Political career

House of Representatives

Lott began his political career in the United States House of Representatives, representing Mississippi's 5th congressional district from 1973 to 1989. He succeeded William M. Colmer, for whom he had previously worked as an administrative assistant. During his tenure in the House, Lott served as the House Minority Whip from 1981 to 1989.

United States Senate

In 1988, Lott was elected to the United States Senate, succeeding John C. Stennis. He was re-elected in 1994, 2000, and 2006. Lott held several key leadership positions in the Senate, including Senate Majority Leader from 1996 to 2001 and again in 2003, and Senate Minority Leader from 2001 to 2003. He also served as the Senate Minority Whip from 2007 until his resignation in 2007.

Resignation

Lott resigned from the Senate on December 18, 2007. His resignation came shortly before new rules were to take effect that would have extended the waiting period for former lawmakers to become lobbyists.

Post-Senate career

After leaving the Senate, Lott co-founded a lobbying firm, the Breaux-Lott Leadership Group, with former Senator John Breaux. The firm was later acquired by Patton Boggs.

Personal life

Lott is married to Patricia Thompson, and they have two children. He is a member of the Baptist church.

Related pages

• United States Senate
• Republican Party (United States)
• Mississippi
• Senate Majority Leader
• Senate Minority Leader
• House Minority Whip

Also see

► Healthcare providers in Mississippi

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