Introduction
In the modern landscape of American politics, few figures have captured the public’s attention quite like Pete Buttigieg—the former South Bend mayor, 2020 Democratic presidential candidate, and former U.S. Secretary of Transportation. But beyond his resume and policy platforms lies a deeply human story: one of love, partnership, family, and personal identity. At the center of that story is his husband, Chasten Buttigieg.
This article offers a comprehensive exploration of Pete Buttigieg’s personal life, with a focus on his relationship with Chasten, their journey into parenthood, their historic visibility as a same-sex couple in politics, and their impact on American cultural and political discourse. We also address frequently searched queries like “Pete Buttigieg ex-wife,” “Was Pete Buttigieg married before,” and “Pete Buttigieg twins ethnicity.”
Who Is Pete Buttigieg?
Pete Buttigieg (pronounced “Boot-edge-edge”) was born on January 19, 1982, in South Bend, Indiana. As of 2025, he is 43 years old. Buttigieg is a Harvard graduate, a Rhodes Scholar, and a veteran of the U.S. Navy Reserve who served in Afghanistan. His political rise began when he was elected mayor of South Bend in 2011 at just 29 years old.
He gained national fame during his 2020 Democratic presidential run, where he became the first openly gay candidate to run for president in a major party—and perform strongly. In 2021, he was appointed by President Joe Biden as Secretary of Transportation, becoming the first openly gay cabinet member in U.S. history confirmed by the Senate.
Who Is Chasten Buttigieg?
Early Life and Education
Chasten James Glezman Buttigieg was born on June 23, 1989, in Traverse City, Michigan. He is currently 36 years old. Chasten comes from a conservative, working-class background and has spoken openly about the challenges he faced growing up gay in a small Midwestern town, including homelessness and estrangement from his family after coming out.
He earned a degree in theater and global studies from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire and later pursued a Master of Education from DePaul University in Chicago.
How Did Pete and Chasten Meet?
Pete and Chasten met on the dating app Hinge in 2015. Their first date reportedly included a trip to a baseball game and Indian food. Pete described Chasten as “the one who brought me out of my shell” and someone who helped him “become more myself.”
The couple got engaged in 2017 at Chicago O’Hare Airport—a symbolic gesture given their love of travel and Pete’s later role in transportation. They were married on June 16, 2018, in South Bend.
Breaking Stereotypes: A Same-Sex Couple in National Politics
Their union marked a historic shift in American political visibility. As Pete’s presidential campaign gained momentum, Chasten became a regular presence on the trail, often speaking at rallies and engaging with voters. Media outlets dubbed him “America’s First Gentleman in Waiting.”
Chasten’s openness about their relationship, his humor, and his commitment to public education and mental health advocacy helped humanize the campaign. He became a role model for LGBTQ youth and was praised for his authenticity in interviews and public appearances.
Was Pete Buttigieg Married Before?
No. Pete Buttigieg has never been married before Chasten. The idea of a “Pete Buttigieg ex-wife” is a common misconception, often stemming from political misinformation or confusion. Pete came out publicly in 2015 during his tenure as mayor of South Bend. He has been in a committed relationship with Chasten ever since.
Parenthood: Adopting Twins
In August 2021, Pete and Chasten announced they had become parents. The couple later revealed they had adopted newborn twins, a girl named Penelope Rose and a boy named Joseph August Buttigieg, named after Pete’s late father.
The Buttigiegs openly discussed the challenges of their journey to parenthood, which involved navigating the adoption system and enduring several false starts. Their experience struck a chord with families—gay and straight alike—across the country.
They formally introduced their children via social media with a photo showing the couple in a hospital bed holding the twins—an image that quickly went viral as a powerful symbol of family diversity in 21st-century America.
What Is the Ethnicity of Pete Buttigieg’s Twins?
The couple has not publicly disclosed the ethnicity of their adopted twins, which is a common and understandable decision. What’s notable is that the twins are biological siblings and are biracial, according to multiple media reports. Their adoption demonstrates the Buttigiegs’ commitment to creating a loving and inclusive family.
What Is Pete Buttigieg’s Net Worth?
As of 2025, Pete Buttigieg’s estimated net worth ranges between $500,000 and $1 million, based on public financial disclosures and media estimates. Much of his income has come from:
His government salary (approximately $221,400/year as Transportation Secretary)
Book deals: He published the memoir “Shortest Way Home” in 2019 and “Trust: America’s Best Chance” in 2020.
Speaking engagements and consulting work since leaving the cabinet.
Chasten has also contributed to the household income through book sales from his 2020 memoir “I Have Something to Tell You” and advocacy work.
Who Was Joseph Buttigieg?
Joseph Anthony Buttigieg II was Pete’s father, a respected literary scholar, and professor at the University of Notre Dame. He was known for translating the works of Antonio Gramsci, the Italian Marxist philosopher.
Joseph passed away in January 2019 after a battle with cancer. Pete’s deep admiration for his father is evident in how he speaks about him, and naming his adopted son Joseph August was a poignant tribute.
Chasten’s Memoir: “I Have Something to Tell You”
In 2020, Chasten Buttigieg published “I Have Something to Tell You,” a candid, emotional, and often humorous memoir about growing up gay in rural Michigan, meeting Pete, and adjusting to political life in the national spotlight.
The book was praised for its vulnerability and relatability, resonating especially with young LGBTQ+ readers and anyone who has struggled with identity and acceptance.
Public Life After Cabinet Service
Since stepping down as Secretary of Transportation in early 2025, Pete Buttigieg has kept a relatively low political profile but remains a sought-after voice in media and political discourse. Chasten continues his work as a public speaker and LGBTQ+ advocate. The couple also engages in family-centered media, appearing in occasional interviews and holiday specials.
There is ongoing speculation about whether Pete will run for higher office in the future, including potential gubernatorial or even presidential bids in the 2030s. For now, however, they appear focused on raising their children and maintaining a balanced family life.
A Symbol of Modern American Family
Pete and Chasten Buttigieg’s story is about much more than politics. It’s about breaking barriers, challenging norms, and showing that love, partnership, and parenthood know no bounds. They have become symbols of progress not because they intended to—but because they’ve lived openly and authentically.
Their visibility has changed hearts and minds. In schools, small towns, and families across America, LGBTQ youth now have examples of public love and family that didn’t exist a decade ago. They’ve shown the country—and the world—that a same-sex couple can thrive in the spotlight without compromising who they are.
Final Thoughts
In the ever-evolving story of American politics, Pete and Chasten Buttigieg stand out—not only for their public service but for their courage to love boldly and parent proudly in the national spotlight. Their journey continues to inspire people of all backgrounds to live authentically, love deeply, and lead with purpose.
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