Spencer Abraham

About

Spencer Abraham was a distinguished visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution until 2008. He was sworn in as the tenth secretary of energy on January 20, 2001, following his confirmation by the U.S. Senate. In September 2005, Abraham was appointed to serve as cochairman of the Committee for Justice, along with Ronald Cass, former dean of Boston University Law School.

Before becoming energy secretary, Abraham represented Michigan in the United States Senate from 1995 to 2001. During his tenure, he served on the Budget, Commerce, Science and Transportation, Judiciary, and Small Business Committees. He also chaired two important subcommittees: (1) Manufacturing and Competitiveness and (2) Immigration.

As a U.S. senator, Abraham was a forceful voice for the business community and free enterprise; he endorsed policies and practices that promote and enhance America's competitiveness and global leadership. He also supported free trade, legal and regulatory reform, tax reform, and high-tech issues.

Before his election to the senate, Abraham served as cochairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) from 1991 to 1993. He was also chairman of the Michigan Republican Party from 1983 to 1990 and deputy chief of staff to Vice President Dan Quayle from 1990 to 1991.

Abraham, who holds a law degree from Harvard University, is a native of East Lansing, Michigan.