Date of Birth: June 6, 1928
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Date of Death: May 8, 2018
Biography
George Deukmejian, born Courken George Deukmejian Jr., was an American politician and attorney who served as the 35th Governor of California from 1983 to 1991. He was born in New York City to Armenian immigrant parents. Deukmejian attended Siena College in New York, where he earned his undergraduate degree, and later received his law degree from St. John’s University School of Law. Before becoming governor, he served as a member of the California State Assembly, the California State Senate, and as the Attorney General of California. His tenure as governor was marked by a tough stance on crime, an emphasis on fiscal conservatism, and efforts to reduce government spending.
5 Interesting Facts about George Deukmejian
1. George Deukmejian was the second Armenian-American to become a governor in the United States.
2. He earned the nickname “The Iron Duke” for his firm stance on law and order.
3. Deukmejian vetoed more bills in his first year as governor than any of his predecessors.
4. He was instrumental in expanding the state prison system in California to address overcrowding.
5. Despite his tough-on-crime reputation, Deukmejian also worked on environmental issues, including the protection of California’s coastline.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Deukmejian
1. “The people of California have the right to be safe in their homes and their communities.”
2. “Government’s first duty is to protect the people, not run their lives.”
3. “We must ensure that our justice system is both tough and fair.”
4. “Fiscal responsibility is not just a slogan, it’s a way of life.”
5. “Public safety is the top priority of any government.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At his peak, George Deukmejian’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.
Children
George Deukmejian and his wife, Gloria Saatjian, had three children: two daughters, Leslie and Courtney, and a son, George III.
Relevant Links
1. [Wikipedia – George Deukmejian](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Deukmejian
4. [California State Library – Biography](https://governors.library.ca.gov/35-Deukmejian.html
