Gray Davis

37th Governor, Democrat
(1999-2003)

- Photograph of Governor
- Short Biography
- Administration
- Personal information
- This Time in California

Biography *
Throughout Governor Gray Davis' tenure, he made education his top priority. He worked to strengthen California's K-12 education system, increase accountability in schools, and expand access to higher education. He made record investments in California's infrastructure and protected California's unique environment. Under his leadership, California led the nation on civil rights. As Lieutenant Governor, Gray Davis focused on efforts to keep jobs in California and encourage business to locate and expand within California. Gray Davis also served as State Controller for eight years and from 1983-1987, in the State Assembly from Los Angeles County. From 1975-1981, he was Chief of Staff to Governor Edmund G. "Jerry" Brown, Jr. Gray Davis earned a bachelor of arts degree in history from Stanford University, graduating and a juris doctorate degree from Columbia University Law School in New York. In 1961, while at Stanford University, Gray Davis joined the Reserve Officer Training Corps. He entered active duty in the U.S. Army in 1967, after law school, rising to the rank of captain while serving in Vietnam in 1968-69. In Vietnam he earned the Bronze Star for meritorious service. He is a life member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Administration under Governor Gray Davis

- Inaugural Address - January 4, 1999
- Inaugural Address - January 6, 2003

The Life of Governor Gray Davis

Born
December 26, 1942
New York, New York

Family
First Lady: Sharon Ryer