George Pataki

Date of Birth: June 24, 1945

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Biography

George Elmer Pataki is an American politician and attorney who served as the 53rd Governor of New York from 1995 to 2006. Born and raised in Peekskill, New York, Pataki’s career in politics began at the local level, serving as the mayor of Peekskill, before moving on to the New York State Assembly, and later the State Senate. Pataki’s tenure as governor was noted for his moderate Republican stance and his efforts in environmental conservation, health care reform, and economic development. Pataki attended Yale University, where he graduated with honors in 1967, and later earned a law degree from Columbia Law School in 1970. His gubernatorial campaign in 1994 was marked by his pledge to cut taxes and reduce crime, which resonated with voters leading to his victory over incumbent Democrat Mario Cuomo. During his governorship, Pataki was known for his leadership following the September 11 attacks, playing a crucial role in the recovery and rebuilding efforts in New York City. After leaving office, Pataki has remained active in public life, engaging in various business ventures, legal practice, and political commentary. He also made a brief bid for the Republican nomination in the 2016 presidential election.

5 Interesting Facts about George Pataki

1. Pataki is of Hungarian and Italian descent, with his paternal grandfather having immigrated from Hungary.

2. He was the third-longest-serving governor in New York’s history.

3. Under his administration, New York State saw the establishment of the Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged.

4. Pataki was a key figure in the creation of the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation, which was instrumental in the rebuilding efforts after 9/11.

5. In 2008, he founded the Pataki-Cahill Group, a business development firm.