Date of Birth: July 16, 1966
Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Biography
Don Willett, born Donny Ray Willett, is an influential American judge currently serving on the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. He was born and raised in Talty, Texas, where he developed a strong sense of justice and public service from an early age. Willett earned his undergraduate degree from Baylor University and subsequently attended Duke University School of Law, where he distinguished himself academically. Before his judicial career, Willett served in various legal and public service roles, including as Deputy Texas Attorney General, Deputy Assistant Attorney General at the U.S. Department of Justice, and as a special assistant to President George W. Bush. His extensive experience in both state and federal government has made him a respected figure in the judiciary. Willett gained national attention for his unique and often humorous social media presence, particularly on Twitter, where he has shared legal insights, personal anecdotes, and witty commentary on current events. His approachable and engaging online persona earned him the nickname “Tweeter Laureate of Texas.” In 2017, President Donald Trump nominated Willett to the Fifth Circuit, and he was confirmed by the Senate later that year. As a judge, Willett is known for his textualist and originalist approach to constitutional interpretation, often emphasizing the importance of limited government and individual liberties.
5 Interesting Facts about Don Willett
1. Don Willett is known for his active and humorous presence on social media, earning him the title “Tweeter Laureate of Texas.”
2. He served as a clerk for Judge Jerre S. Williams on the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit after graduating from law school.
3. Willett was part of President George W. Bush’s legal team during the 2000 Florida election recount, which played a pivotal role in Bush’s eventual victory.
4. He has been a vocal advocate for the Federalist Society, an organization of conservatives and libertarians dedicated to reforming the current legal order.
5. Willett co-authored a book titled “Scalia’s Court: A Legacy of Landmark Opinions and Dissents,” celebrating the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia’s contributions to American jurisprudence.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Don Willett
1. “Law is a noble profession, but it’s also an arena for public service.”
2. “Judges must be servants of the law, not its masters.”
3. “The Constitution is a framework for freedom, not a tool for tyranny.”
4. “Humor and humility can go a long way in humanizing the judiciary.”
5. “In our system of government, the people are sovereign, and the Constitution is their charter.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
As a public servant, Don Willett’s net worth is not publicly disclosed, but it is estimated to be in the range of $1 million to $5 million, primarily from his judicial salary and previous roles in public service.
Children
Don Willett is married to Tiffany Willett, and the couple has three children: two daughters and a son. They are known to be a close-knit family, often participating in community activities and events together.
Relevant Links
2. [Don Willett’s Twitter Account](https://twitter.com/JusticeWillett
3. [Biography on Federal Judicial Center](https://www.fjc.gov/history/judges/willett-don-r