Richard Riley

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Richard Wilson Riley (born January 2, 1933), American politician, was the United States Secretary of Education under President Bill Clinton as well as the Governor of South Carolina, is a member of the Democratic Party.

Born in Greenville County, South Carolina, Riley graduated with honors from Furman University in 1954. He then served in the Navy from 1954-55. Later in 1959 he received a law degree from the University of South Carolina.

Riley began in politics as a member of the House of Representatives in his home state of South Carolina, serving from 1963-66. He then moved to the State Senate, serving for ten years beginning in 1967. Riley was elected governor of South Carolina in 1979. During his first term, the state constitution was amended to allow a second term. Riley was re-elected, and served until 1987. Riley's chief accomplishment was improving funding and support for education. Upon being elected President, Bill Clinton tapped him as Secretary of Education, a post he held during both Clinton Administrations. Since then, he has served as a partner in the law firm of Nelson, Mullins, Riley, and Scarborough.

Riley married Ann Osteen Yarborough. They have four children.

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