Who Is Bob Kerrey? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Bob Kerrey, born on August 27, 1943, is a prominent American politician and former naval officer known for his significant contributions to public service. As of 2025, Kerrey is 81 years old. He served as the Governor of Nebraska from 1983 to 1987 and represented Nebraska in the U.S. Senate from 1989 until 2001. His career has been marked by a commitment to democracy, education reform, and veteran affairs.
Kerrey holds a noteworthy place in American politics, having played pivotal roles in various legislative initiatives and campaigns throughout his extensive career.
| Occupation | Restaurateurs |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 27, 1943 |
| Age | 81 Years |
| Birth Place | Lincoln, Nebraska, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Virgo |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Bob Kerrey's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Bob Kerrey stands at approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall. While specifics about his weight are not publicly noted, his dedication to health and fitness is reflected through his active lifestyle, especially during his naval service and political career.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
In his personal life, Bob Kerrey has experienced both love and loss. He was previously married to Dorothy "Dottie" Kerrey, with whom he shares two daughters. However, they divorced. As of 2025, there are no confirmed reports of a new relationship or a boyfriend in Kerrey’s life, and he continues to focus on his public engagement and professional endeavors.
While he was Governor of Nebraska, Kerrey dated actress Debra Winger while the latter was in Lincoln filming Terms of Endearment (part of which is set in Nebraska), which won the 1983 Oscar for Best Picture.
When confronted with intense questioning by the press over the nature of the relationship, Kerrey famously replied; "What can I say – she swept me off my foot", alluding to the fact that the lower part of one of his legs was amputated because of injuries sustained in his Medal of Honor action in Vietnam.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Bob Kerrey's estimated net worth is in the range of $10 million to $15 million. His wealth stems from various avenues, including his political career, investments, and contributions to numerous organizations. His salaries as a senator and governor have added to his financial background, establishing him as a figure of influence and affluence.
In December 2012, the Chronicle of Higher Education reported that in 2010, the year of his anticipated departure, his salary was more than $600,000, and his total take-home pay, including bonuses, deferred compensation and nontaxable benefits, was $3,047,703, making Kerrey the highest-paid private college president in the United States.
Career, Business, and Investments
Bob Kerrey's career has traversed multiple realms, from military service to politics and business. After serving in the U.S. Navy, he transitioned into politics, where he garnered national attention for his stance on important issues. Following his political tenure, Kerrey took on a leadership role at the New School University in New York City.
Furthermore, he has engaged in various business ventures and investments that reflect his commitment to education and innovation. His endeavors have allowed him to maintain a prominent public presence and contribute to numerous philanthropic efforts.
In 2013, Kerrey joined the Carmen Group lobbying firm. Kerrey is a co-chair for the advisory board of Issue One, an organization that describes its mission as "fighting for real solutions to the problem of money in politics". In 1987, Kerrey was elected to the Common Cause National Governing Board.
Social Network
Bob Kerrey maintains a presence on various social media platforms, leveraging them to connect with constituents and share insights about his views and activities. His Twitter and Facebook accounts are instrumental in engaging with followers and continuing discussions on policy and public issues.
Kerrey voted for the Gramm–Leach–Bliley Act which repealed the Glass–Steagall Act in 1999, defending his position against opposition by stating, "The concerns that we will have a meltdown like 1929 are dramatically overblown". Most famously, Kerrey cast the deciding vote in favor of President Bill Clinton's 1993 budget plan.
Education
Kerrey’s educational background is notable; he graduated from the University of Nebraska with a degree in business and later attended the University of Nebraska Medical Center, where he pursued his passion for health and public service. His educational foundation laid the groundwork for a lifetime of leadership and advocacy in the political landscape of America.
Kerrey was a candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1992. He retired from the Senate in 2000 and was replaced by former governor and fellow Democrat Ben Nelson. From 2001 to 2010, he served as president of The New School, a university in New York City.
In May 2010, he was selected to become the head of the Motion Picture Association of America. The MPAA, however, could not reach an agreement with him and chose former Connecticut Senator Chris Dodd instead. In 2012, Kerrey sought election to his old Senate seat to succeed his successor, the retiring Democratic incumbent Ben Nelson.
He lost to Republican nominee Deb Fischer.
