Date of Birth: April 8, 1947
Zodiac Sign: Aries
Biography
Thomas Dale DeLay, commonly known as Tom DeLay, is a former American politician from the state of Texas. Born on April 8, 1947, in Laredo, Texas, DeLay grew up in a politically active family. He attended Baylor University and later graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in biology. DeLay initially worked as an exterminator before transitioning into politics. His political career began in the Texas House of Representatives, where he served from 1979 to 1984. In 1984, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served until 2006. DeLay quickly rose through the ranks of the Republican Party, becoming House Majority Whip in 1995 and House Majority Leader in 2002. Known for his hardline conservative views and effective party discipline, DeLay earned the nickname “The Hammer.” His career, however, was marred by legal troubles. In 2005, he was indicted on charges of criminal conspiracy and money laundering related to campaign finance activities. He resigned as House Majority Leader and eventually from Congress in 2006. After a protracted legal battle, DeLay was convicted in 2010 but the conviction was overturned on appeal in 2013. Since leaving Congress, DeLay has maintained a lower public profile but remains an influential figure within conservative circles.
5 Interesting Facts about Tom DeLay
1. Tom DeLay was known as “The Hammer” for his strong-arm tactics in enforcing party discipline.
2. He was involved in the controversial 2003 Texas redistricting plan that helped Republicans gain more seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.
3. DeLay was a prominent critic of environmental regulations and had a background in pest control.
4. His legal troubles led to his resignation from Congress, but his conviction was eventually overturned in 2013.
5. DeLay participated in the ninth season of “Dancing with the Stars” in 2009.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Tom DeLay
1. “You don’t have to settle for what the Democrats and the liberal media let you have.”
2. “Our system is not perfect, but it is the best system in the world.”
3. “I am not a federal employee. I am a constitutional officer. My job is the Constitution of the United States, I am not a government employee.”
4. “Nothing is more important in the face of a war than cutting taxes.”
5. “I am hoping to work with the President to change the tone in Washington, and to restore a spirit of civility and respect.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At his peak, Tom DeLay’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.
Children
Tom DeLay has one daughter, Dani DeLay Ferro.
Relevant Links
1. [Tom DeLay Biography on Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Tom-DeLay
3. [Tom DeLay on Dancing with the Stars](https://abc.com/shows/dancing-with-the-stars/cast/tom-delay
