John Ratcliffe is a politician, intelligence leader and public servant.
John Ratcliffe, American politician and lawyer, who from 2020 served in a senior intelligence government position, played an important role in the U.S. legislature and executive. He is probably most famous these days for being Director of National Intelligence (DNI) during the Trump administration. Before that, Ratcliffe served in the U.S. House representing Texas’ 4th Congressional District. He has built his career around national security, intelligence issues and the conservative politics that help driveall of them.
Early Life and Education
Ratcliffe, 57, was born Oct. 20, 1965, in Mount Pleasant, Texas. A small-town upbringing, Ratcliffe said, instilled in him a lifelong work ethic and a public service-oriented mentality. He graduated from Mount Pleasant High School, and went on to higher education.
Ratcliffe went on to receive a Bachelors in Government from Harvard University. After that, he received a JD from the University of Texas School of Law. Following law school, Ratcliffe began his career as a practicing attorney with an emphasis on criminal defense and civil litigation.
Early Career and Legal Work
John Ratcliffe served as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas from 2004 to 2008 prior to both state and congressional politics, where he has contributed over many years. During this time, Ratcliffe built a serious reputation as a prosecutor in the high plains; his cases ranged from organized crime to drug trafficking and other major federal offenses.
Assistant U.S. Attorney — Ratcliffe as an assistant U.S. attorney prosecuted cases against major drug cartels and organized crime groups. He was recognized for his success and effectiveness in bringing down organized crime figures.
Private Law Practice: Ratcliffe returned to private law practice after his time as a U.S. Attorney, but prior to seeking public office. It helped that he has an extensive legal background.
