A closer look at the biggest achievements of Paul Ryan. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.
Paul Ryan is an American politician prominent for his role as the 54th Speaker of the House from 2015 to 2019. A Republican, he previously served as his party's nominee for Vice President in 2012, running with Mitt Romney against incumbent President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden. Ryan's career is largely defined by his leadership within the Republican party and his involvement in national political discourse.
1998: Election to the House of Representatives
In 1998, Paul Ryan was first elected to the House of Representatives, representing Wisconsin's 1st congressional district, becoming the second-youngest member of the House.
2000: Re-election to the House
Paul Ryan was re-elected to the House in 2000, defeating Democratic challenger Jeffrey C. Thomas.
2002: Re-election to the House
Paul Ryan was re-elected to the House in 2002, defeating Democratic challenger Jeffrey C. Thomas.
2004: Re-election to the House
Paul Ryan was re-elected to the House in 2004, defeating Democratic challenger Jeffrey C. Thomas.
2006: Re-election to the House
Paul Ryan was re-elected to the House in 2006, defeating Democratic challenger Jeffrey C. Thomas.
2008: Re-election to the House
Paul Ryan was re-elected to the House in 2008, defeating Democrat Marge Krupp.
2010: Re-election to the House
In 2010, Paul Ryan was re-elected to the House, defeating Democrat John Heckenlively and Libertarian Joseph Kexel.
2014: House Re-election
In 2014, Paul Ryan was re-elected to the House, defeating Rob Zerban with 63 percent of the vote.
October 2015: Election as Speaker of the House
In October 2015, Paul Ryan was elected Speaker of the House, succeeding John Boehner.
2015: Speaker of the House
In 2015, Paul Ryan became the 54th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, a position he held until 2019.
August 9, 2016: Ryan Wins Primary Election
On August 9, 2016, Paul Ryan overwhelmingly defeated Paul Nehlen in the primary election, taking over 84 percent of the vote.