Lasting Legacy of Pete Buttigieg: A Look at the Influence on History

How the contributions of Pete Buttigieg continue to shape the world today.

Pete Buttigieg is an American politician and former naval officer. He served as the 19th United States Secretary of Transportation from 2021 to 2025. Previously, he was the 32nd mayor of South Bend, Indiana, from 2012 to 2020, earning him the nickname "Mayor Pete". A member of the Democratic Party, Buttigieg is a prominent figure in American politics.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

2012: First Serious Mistake as Mayor

Shortly after taking office in 2012, Pete Buttigieg considered his decision to ask for Boykins' resignation his "first serious mistake as mayor".

November 2016: Obama Cites Buttigieg as One of the Democratic Party's Talents

In a November 2016 profile on the outgoing president conducted by The New Yorker, Barack Obama cited Pete Buttigieg as one of the Democratic Party's talents.

2020: South Bend Ranked Among Best Small Cities

In 2020, the website Best Cities ranked South Bend number 39 on its list of the 100 best small cities in the United States, citing Buttigieg's efforts to revitalize the Studebaker factory and Downtown South Bend.

March 2023: Buttigieg's Response to Ohio Train Derailment

In March 2023, Secretary Buttigieg appeared on CNN and admitted to erring in not visiting East Palestine sooner and failing to anticipate the fallout from the train derailment.

2023: Study on Buttigieg's Electability

A 2023 study by political scientists from Loyola Marymount University reported how different aspects of Buttigieg's biography affected voters' views on his electability as a US President.