Early Life and Education of Ron Wyden: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Ron Wyden, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Ron Wyden is the senior U.S. Senator from Oregon since 1996 and previously served in the House of Representatives starting in 1981. A Democrat, he is known for his libertarian-leaning views and advocacy for civil liberties, particularly regarding privacy rights and internet freedom. As ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee, Wyden has been a vocal critic of government surveillance and a champion for limiting its scope. He is considered a key figure in debates surrounding technology and individual rights in the digital age.

Sections (6)

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

1923: Birth of Peter H. Wyden

In 1923, Peter H. Wyden (originally Weidenreich), Ron Wyden's father, was born. He and Ron's mother, Edith (née Rosenow), both Jewish, fled Nazi Germany.

May 3, 1949: Ron Wyden Born

On May 3, 1949, Ronald Lee Wyden was born. He is an American politician and the senior United States senator from Oregon since 1996.

1968: Worked as Wayne Morse's Driver

In the summer of 1968, Ron Wyden worked as Wayne Morse's driver. Wyden considers Morse his mentor.

1971: Received Bachelor of Arts

In 1971, Ron Wyden received his Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Stanford University.

1974: Received Juris Doctor Degree

In 1974, Ron Wyden received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Oregon School of Law.

1995: First U.S. Senate candidate to publicly support same-sex marriage

In late 1995, Ron Wyden became the first U.S. Senate candidate to publicly support same-sex marriage.

1998: Death of Peter H. Wyden

In 1998, Peter H. Wyden, Ron Wyden's father, passed away.

1999: Divorced First Wife

In 1999, Ron Wyden divorced his first wife, Laurie (née Oseran), after 20 years of marriage. They have two grown children, Adam and Lilly.

September 2005: Married Nancy Bass

In September 2005, Ron Wyden married Nancy Bass, the daughter of an owner of New York's Strand Bookstore.

2007: Twins Born

In 2007, Ron Wyden and Nancy Wyden had twins.

December 2010: Underwent Surgery for Prostate Cancer

In December 2010, Ron Wyden underwent surgery for very early-stage prostate cancer, which was detected during a routine screening.

December 2010: Voted for the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010

In December 2010, despite undergoing tests in advance of prostate surgery, Ron Wyden appeared in the Senate chamber to vote for the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010.