Ann Willis Richards (born September 1, 1933) is an American politician from Texas. She rose to nationwide fame as the keynote speaker at the 1988 Democratic National Convention leading up to the 1988 presidential election. She served as Governor of Texas from 1991 to 1995, when she was defeated by George W. Bush, current President of the United States.

Early life

Richards was born Dorothy Ann Willis in Lakeview, Texas. She grew up in Waco, Texas, and graduated from Waco High School in 1950, marrying her high school sweetheart, David Richards. She received a bachelor's degree from Baylor University, and a teaching certificate from the University of Texas.

After graduation, she taught social studies and history at Fulmore Junior High School in Austin, Texas. During this time, she had two daughters and two sons.

Political career

In 1976, Richards was elected to Travis County, Texas Commissioner Court, where she served for six years. She then was elected State Treasurer in 1982, becoming the first woman elected to statewide office in more than fifty years. In 1986, she was re-elected without opposition.

Richards delivered the keynote address to the 1988 Democratic National Convention, a move which put her in the national spotlight with the line "Poor George [H.W. Bush], he can't help it...He was born with a silver foot in his mouth." In 1990, she ran for Governor of Texas, and won election on November 6, 1990. She was a popular governor, but was unexpectedly defeated in 1994 by George W. Bush.

Post governorship

She was diagnosed with osteoporosis in 1996, having lost 3/4 inch in height and broken her hand and ankle. She changed her diet and lifestyle, which has stabilized her bone density. She talks frequently about this experience, advocating a healthier lifestyle for women at risk of the disease.

In the 2004 presidential election, Richards endorsed Governor Howard Dean for the Democratic nomination, campaigning on Dean's behalf.

Preceded by : Bill Clements

Governors of Texas

Succeeded by: George W. Bush

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