Mike Pence's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Mike Pence.

Michael Richard Pence is an American politician and lawyer who served as the 48th Vice President of the United States from 2017 to 2021 under President Donald Trump. A Republican, he was the 50th Governor of Indiana from 2013 to 2017. Prior to that, he served as a U.S. Representative for Indiana from 2001 to 2013.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2008: Listed as one of the ten best members of Congress

In 2008, Esquire magazine listed Pence as one of the ten best members of Congress.

2013: Tax Reform Prioritized and Achieved

In 2013, Mike Pence prioritized tax reform, specifically a ten percent income-tax rate cut. Although the ten percent cut was not achieved, state taxes were successfully cut by five percent, and the inheritance tax was eliminated. The legislative package was described as the "largest tax cut in our state's history, about $1.1 billion dollars".

2014: Establishment of State Preschool Pilot Program

In 2014, Pence helped establish a $10 million state preschool pilot program in Indiana. He also testified before the state Senate Education Committee to convince fellow Republicans to approve the plan, successfully reviving it after initial defeat, addressing Indiana's status as one of the few states without direct funds for poor children's preschool. Demand for the program far exceeded capacity, and Pence initially declined to apply for federal funding due to concerns about federal intrusion, but later reversed course after facing criticism.

2015: Charter School Funding Increases Secured

In 2015, Pence secured significant increases in charter-school funding through legislation, although not everything he proposed was achieved.

November 8, 2016: Election as Vice President

On November 8, 2016, Mike Pence was elected Vice President of the United States as Donald Trump's running mate.

January 6, 2021: Oversaw certification of Biden and Harris as election winners

Despite pressure from Trump to overturn the election results and the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, Pence oversaw the certification of Biden and Harris as the winners of the election.

2021: Pence receives the JFK Profile in Courage Award

In 2021, Pence put his life and career on the line to ensure the constitutional transfer of presidential power on Jan. 6, and received the JFK Profile in Courage Award on April 3, 2025

April 3, 2025: Pence receives the JFK Profile in Courage Award

On April 3, 2025, the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation announced Pence as the recipient of the JFK Profile in Courage Award for his actions on January 6, 2021.