Leon Panetta: Early Life and Education, Early Political Career, U.S. House of Representatives, White House Chief of Staff
Early Life and Education
Leon Edward Panetta was born on June 28, 1938, in Monterey, California. His parents, Carmelina Maria and Carmelo Frank Panetta, were Italian immigrants from Siderno, Calabria. The Panetta family owned a restaurant in Monterey during the 1940s. Panetta was raised in the Monterey area, attending Catholic grammar schools San Carlos School and Junípero Serra School, and later Monterey High School, where he was actively involved in student politics, serving as vice president and then president of the student body.
In 1956, Panetta began his undergraduate studies at Santa Clara University, graduating magna cum laude in 1960 with a BA in political science. He continued at Santa Clara University School of Law, earning his Juris Doctor in 1963. In 1964, Panetta joined the U.S. Army as a second lieutenant, served as an officer in the Army Military Intelligence Corps, and received the Army Commendation Medal before being discharged as a first lieutenant in 1966.
Early Political Career
Panetta’s political career began in 1966 when he became a legislative assistant to Republican Senator Thomas Kuchel. In 1969, he was appointed assistant to Robert H. Finch, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare under President Richard Nixon. Soon after, Panetta was named director of the Office for Civil Rights, where he enforced civil rights and equal-education laws despite Nixon’s strategy to slow enforcement to gain political support in the South. His strong stance on civil rights led to his departure from the position in 1970.
After leaving Washington, Panetta worked as an executive assistant for New York City Mayor John Lindsay and later wrote about his experiences in the Nixon administration in his 1971 book, Bring Us Together. He returned to Monterey to practice law at Panetta, Thompson & Panetta from 1971 to 1976.
U.S. House of Representatives
Elections
Panetta shifted his political affiliation to the Democratic Party in 1971, citing the Republican Party’s move away from the political center. In 1976, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from California’s 16th congressional district, defeating incumbent Republican Burt Talcott with 53% of the vote. Panetta was reelected eight times without facing another contest as close as his initial election.
Tenure
During his tenure in Congress, Panetta focused on various issues, including budget matters, civil rights, education, healthcare, agriculture, immigration, and environmental protection. He was instrumental in passing the Hunger Prevention Act (1988) and the Fair Employment Practices Resolution. Panetta authored legislation to establish the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and provide Medicare coverage for hospice care. He also played a key role in the establishment of California State University, Monterey Bay.
Panetta proposed the creation of the Big Sur National Scenic Area, a 700,000-acre protected zone along the Big Sur coast. Despite significant opposition from local residents, development interests, and California Senator S. I. Hayakawa, the bill did not progress past the energy committee.
Later Career
In 1997, Panetta co-founded the Panetta Institute for Public Policy at California State University, Monterey Bay. The institute aims to inspire and prepare individuals for public service and engage them in the democratic process. Panetta also served as a distinguished scholar and professor of public policy at Santa Clara University.
In January 2009, President Barack Obama nominated Panetta as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), where he oversaw the operation that resulted in the death of Osama bin Laden. In April 2011, Panetta was nominated and confirmed as Secretary of Defense, a position he held until February 2013, when he was succeeded by Chuck Hagel.
Since retiring, Panetta has continued his work with the Panetta Institute, served on various boards and commissions, and remains active in writing and lecturing on public policy issues.
Committee Assignments
During his tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives, Panetta held several key committee assignments:
- Chairman of the U.S. House Committee on the Budget: Panetta played a pivotal role in shaping national fiscal policy and budgeting.
- Chairman of the Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Domestic Marketing, Consumer Relations, and Nutrition: He focused on agricultural policies and nutrition-related issues.
- Chairman of the Administration Committee’s Subcommittee on Personnel and Police: Panetta oversaw issues related to personnel and police matters within the administration.
- Chairman of the Task Force on Domestic Hunger: This task force, created by the U.S. House Select Committee on Hunger, addressed issues related to domestic hunger and food insecurity.
- Vice Chairman of the Caucus of Vietnam-Era Veterans in Congress: He advocated for the interests and issues concerning Vietnam-era veterans.
- Member of the President’s Commission on Foreign Language and International Studies: Panetta contributed to discussions on enhancing foreign language skills and international studies.
Director of the Office of Management and Budget
In early 1993, despite being elected to a ninth term in Congress, Panetta left the House to become the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under President Bill Clinton. In this role, he was instrumental in developing the budget plan that contributed to the balanced budget achieved in 1998.
White House Chief of Staff
In July 1994, President Clinton appointed Panetta as White House Chief of Staff, replacing Mack McLarty. Clinton sought Panetta’s leadership to address issues of order and focus within the White House, spanning both domestic and foreign policy matters. Panetta’s tenure as Chief of Staff lasted until January 1997. He played a critical role in negotiating the 1996 budget, a significant step toward achieving budgetary balance.
Director of the CIA
Nomination
On January 5, 2009, President-elect Barack Obama announced his intention to nominate Panetta as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Despite concerns about Panetta’s limited intelligence experience, which stemmed from his prior military intelligence service in the 1960s, his extensive experience in government and personal rapport with the President were cited as strengths. Panetta was confirmed by the Senate on February 12, 2009, by voice vote.
Tenure
Panetta was sworn in as CIA Director on February 19, 2009, receiving a warm reception from CIA staff. As Director, he traveled extensively to intelligence outposts and collaborated with international leaders to address threats from Islamic extremism and the Taliban.
In 2010, Panetta led a secret review of the CIA’s use of enhanced interrogation techniques, known as the Panetta Review. The review criticized the Bush-era interrogation program and was aligned with the findings of the Senate Intelligence Committee report on CIA torture. Both reports focused on documenting the facts and preventing future abuses rather than pursuing accountability for past actions.
Panetta supported the Obama administration’s drone strike campaign in Pakistan, which he regarded as an effective method for targeting senior al-Qaeda leaders. Under his leadership, drone strikes increased significantly, including a notable surge in May 2009.
One of Panetta’s most significant achievements as CIA Director was overseeing the operation that led to the death of Osama bin Laden on May 1, 2011. This operation marked a major milestone in the fight against terrorism.
Secretary of Defense (2011–2013)
Nomination
On April 28, 2011, President Obama nominated Leon Panetta to succeed Robert Gates as the Secretary of Defense. The Senate confirmed Panetta on June 21, 2011, with a unanimous vote of 100–0, and he was sworn in on July 1, 2011.
Tenure
One of Panetta’s initial major actions as Secretary of Defense was to certify the military’s readiness to implement the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” which was finalized after a 60-day review period.
In August 2011, Panetta warned that additional cuts beyond the $500 billion already planned over the next decade could undermine military effectiveness, particularly in addressing challenges from nations like China, North Korea, and Iran. He worked on a new defense strategy to adapt to these fiscal constraints while ensuring military readiness.
Funding the military within tightening budget constraints was a continuous challenge for Panetta. He also indicated that changes to military retirement benefits and healthcare might be necessary to manage costs while maintaining quality care.
In January 2012, Panetta addressed the issue of Iran’s nuclear ambitions, declaring that the development of nuclear weapons by Iran was a “red line” and asserting that the U.S. would consider all options, including military action, to prevent Iran from blocking the Straits of Hormuz.
Just before his departure from the Defense Department in January 2013, Panetta announced that all combat roles in the military would be opened to women, directing each branch to create a timetable for full integration.
Other Activities
Panetta and his wife Sylvia established the Panetta Institute for Public Policy in December 1997. After his tenure as CIA Director, Panetta returned to the institute as chairman, with his wife serving as co-chair and CEO. The institute is based at California State University, Monterey Bay, a campus Panetta helped establish.
He also served on the board of the UC Santa Cruz Foundation, as a Distinguished Scholar at California State University, and as a Presidential Professor at Santa Clara University. Although he was encouraged to run for Governor of California in 2003, he chose not to due to time constraints.
Panetta has been a longstanding advocate for ocean conservation. He introduced legislation for ocean protection, such as the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and chaired the Pew Oceans Commission, which merged with the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy to form the Joint Ocean Commission Initiative, where he currently co-chairs.
In 2006, he was a member of the Iraq Study Group, or Baker Commission, which evaluated U.S. policy in Iraq.
In 2014, Panetta published his memoir Worthy Fights, reflecting on his career and offering critique on some Obama administration policies, particularly in Syria and Iraq.
Panetta continues to speak publicly and consults for organizations such as the Carlyle Group and Booz Allen Hamilton.
Later Career (2013–present)
Public Engagement and Political Commentary
Leon Panetta spoke at the 2016 Democratic National Convention, where he endorsed Hillary Clinton. His speech faced criticism from Bernie Sanders supporters who objected to his record on military issues.
Panetta expressed concerns about national security regarding the release of the Nunes Memo, which was alleged to contain sensitive information about the Russia investigation. He feared it could potentially harm national security interests.
He has served as an advisor to the COVID-19 Technology Task Force, a coalition formed in March 2020 to address challenges related to the pandemic and to develop technological solutions for recovery.
In October 2020, Panetta was among 50 former senior intelligence officials who signed a letter suggesting the Hunter Biden laptop controversy resembled a Russian disinformation effort. Despite this, media outlets including The New York Times and The Washington Post later confirmed the laptop’s authenticity.
Panetta compared the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in August 2021 to the Bay of Pigs Invasion, urging President Biden to take responsibility for the perceived failures.
He authored a January 2021 op-ed in The Washington Post advising President Trump against involving the military in resolving the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.
In October 2022, Panetta joined the Council for Responsible Social Media project, aiming to address the negative impacts of social media on mental health and public discourse.
In August 2024, Panetta spoke at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, continuing his involvement in national political discourse.
Responsibilities
Panetta holds various positions with institutions and organizations:
- Joint Ocean Commission Initiative: Commissioner and Co-Chair
- Pew Oceans Commission: Commissioner and Chairman
- Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget: Co-Chair
- Bread for the World: Board of Directors
- National Marine Sanctuary Foundation: Board of Directors
- National Leadership Roundtable on Church Management: Board of Directors (2004–2009)
- New York Stock Exchange: Co-chairman of the Corporate Accountability and Listing Standards Committee, Board of Directors (1997–present)
- Close Up Foundation: Board of Directors (1999–present)
- Connetics Investor Relations: Board of Directors (2000–present)
- Fleishman-Hillard: Co-chairman of the Corporate Accountability and Listing Standards Committee, Co-chairman of the Corporate Credibility Advisory practice, Member of the International Advisory Board
- Junior Statesmen Foundation Inc.: Trustee (2004)
- Public Policy Institute of California: Board of Directors
- Blue Shield of California: Board of Directors (2013–present)
- Oracle Corporation: Board of Directors (2015–present)
- Center for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue: Global Advisory Board (2021–present)
- Beacon Global Strategies: Senior Counselor (May 2014 – present)
- Partnership for a Secure America: Member of the bipartisan advisory board
- Advisory Board of the Committee to Investigate Russia: Member
Panetta was controversially appointed to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ National Review Board in June 2002 to investigate the Church’s sexual abuse scandal, a move challenged due to his pro-choice stance on abortion.
Personal Life
Panetta is married to Sylvia Marie Varni, who managed his district offices during his Congressional tenure. They reside on a 12-acre walnut farm in Carmel Valley, California. They have three sons and six grandchildren. Their son, Jimmy Panetta, succeeded his father in Congress, representing California’s 20th District.
Awards
Panetta has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including:
- 1966: Army Commendation Medal
- 1969: Abraham Lincoln Award, National Education Association
- 1983: Foreign Language Advocate Award, Northeast Conference on the Teaching of Foreign Languages
- 1983: Ralph B. Atkinson Award for Civil Liberties, Monterey County Chapter of the ACLU
- 1984: A. Philip Randolph Award
- 1988: Golden Plow Award, American Farm Bureau Federation
- 1991: President’s Award, American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages
- 1991: Coastal and Ocean Management Award, Coastal Zone Foundation
- 1993: Peter Burnett Award for Distinguished Public Service
- 1995: Distinguished Public Service Medal, Center for the Study of the Presidency
- 1997: Special Achievement Award for Public Service, National Italian American Foundation
- 2001: John H. Chafee Coastal Stewardship Award, Coastal America
- 2002: Law Alumni Special Achievement Award, Santa Clara University School of Law Alumni Association
- 2003: Julius A. Stratton “Champion of the Coast” Award for Coastal Leadership
- 2005: Honorary Doctorate from University of Wisconsin–Parkside
- 2005: Honorary Doctorate of Public Service from Northeastern University
- 2006: Paul Peck Award
- 2012: Intrepid Freedom Award, Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
- 2012: Golden Plate Award, American Academy of Achievement
- 2014: Excellence in Policy, Peter Benchley Ocean Awards
- 2015: Dwight D. Eisenhower Award, National Defense Industrial Association
- 2018: Sylvanus Thayer Award from the United States Military Academy
- 2019: Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun
- 2023: Prize for American-Italian Relations, Center for American Studies (Rome)
- 2024: Inducted into the California Hall of Fame
Frequently Asked Questions about Leon Panetta
1. Who is Leon Panetta?
Leon Panetta is an American politician and public servant who has held significant roles in U.S. government, including Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Secretary of Defense, and U.S. Congressman. He is known for his work in national security, defense, and public policy.
2. What positions has Leon Panetta held in government?
Panetta has served in various high-profile positions:
- Secretary of Defense (2011–2013)
- Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) (2009–2011)
- U.S. Congressman from California’s 16th District (1977–1993)
- Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) (1994–1997)
- Chief of Staff to President Bill Clinton (1994–1997)
3. What were Leon Panetta’s major accomplishments as Secretary of Defense?
As Secretary of Defense, Panetta’s key achievements included:
- Implementing the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” allowing LGBTQ+ individuals to serve openly in the military.
- Addressing defense budget constraints and warning of potential impacts on military readiness.
- Advocating for a strong stance against Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
- Announcing that women would be allowed to serve in all combat roles.
4. What is the Panetta Institute for Public Policy?
Founded by Leon and Sylvia Panetta in 1997, the Panetta Institute for Public Policy is a non-profit organization based at California State University, Monterey Bay. It focuses on public policy issues and leadership development.
5. What has Leon Panetta done after his time in government?
After leaving government service, Panetta has been involved in various activities:
- Serving as a speaker and commentator on political and national security issues.
- Advising the COVID-19 Technology Task Force on pandemic response.
- Joining the Council for Responsible Social Media to address social media’s impacts.
- Continuing his work with the Panetta Institute for Public Policy and holding various board positions.
6. Has Leon Panetta published any books?
Yes, Panetta published his memoir “Worthy Fights” in 2014, which provides insights into his career and perspectives on U.S. foreign policy and national security.
7. What awards and honors has Leon Panetta received?
Panetta has been honored with numerous awards, including:
- The Sylvanus Thayer Award from the U.S. Military Academy (2018)
- The Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun (2019)
- The Prize for American-Italian Relations from the Center for American Studies (2023)
- Induction into the California Hall of Fame (2024)
8. What role did Panetta play in the Hunter Biden laptop controversy?
In 2020, Panetta and other former intelligence officials suggested that the Hunter Biden laptop controversy appeared to be a Russian disinformation operation. However, later reports confirmed the laptop’s authenticity.
9. What are some of Panetta’s contributions to ocean conservation?
Panetta has been a long-time advocate for ocean conservation, including:
- Serving as Chairman of the Pew Oceans Commission.
- Co-chairing the Joint Ocean Commission Initiative.
- Supporting the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and other marine conservation efforts.
10. What are Leon Panetta’s personal interests?
Panetta is known for his commitment to public service and policy. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys time on his family’s walnut farm in Carmel Valley, California, and is involved in various community and policy organizations.
