Dana Perino is a prominent American political commentator, author, and media personality who serves as a co-anchor for America's Newsroom and a co-host of The Five on the Fox News Channel. Born on May 9, 1972, in Evanston, Wyoming, she built a distinguished trajectory in public service before transitioning into broadcast journalism. She achieved historic recognition as the second female White House Press Secretary, serving under President George W. Bush from 2007 to 2009.
Understanding her background requires looking beyond basic statistics like her age and height to examine her foundational education, her time inside the West Wing, and her ongoing influence in modern television broadcasting.
Early Life and Educational Background
Dana Marie Perino grew up primarily in Denver, Colorado, after being born in Wyoming. From an early age, she developed a keen interest in current events, politics, and public speaking. She attended Ponderosa High School in Parker, Colorado, where she honed her communication skills.
For her undergraduate studies, she enrolled at Colorado State University–Pueblo, graduating with a bachelor's degree in mass communications alongside studies in political science and Spanish. During her college years, she actively participated in the forensics and debate team and worked closely with campus media outlets, including the student radio and television stations.
Seeking a deeper specialization in political journalism, she moved to Illinois to attend the University of Illinois Springfield. There, she earned a master's degree in public affairs reporting, an intensive program that placed student journalists directly inside the state capital press corps to cover legislative sessions and state government operations.
Entering Public Service and White House Tenure
Perino's entry into federal government communications began in the late 1990s and early 2000s. She worked as a spokesperson for the Department of Justice and later spent time in the private sector working for a public relations firm in London alongside her husband. Upon returning to Washington, D.C., she joined the administration of President George W. Bush.
In 2001, she took on a communications role within the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ). Her clear delivery, steady temperament, and command of policy details quickly earned the trust of senior West Wing officials.
By 2005, Perino stepped into the role of White House Deputy Press Secretary. When Tony Snow stepped away for medical treatments in 2007, she served capably as Acting Press Secretary. Following Snow's departure, President Bush officially appointed her as the 26th White House Press Secretary on September 14, 2007. She held the position through the remainder of the Bush administration until January 2009, managing intense daily briefings during a tumultuous period that included the 2008 financial crisis and ongoing foreign policy challenges.
Transition to Fox News and Media Career
Following her tenure in the White House, Perino successfully transitioned into television news and political commentary. She joined Fox News as a contributor, bringing her firsthand executive branch insight to network broadcasts.
Her television presence expanded rapidly:
- The Five: She became an original co-host of this roundtable discussion program when it launched in 2011, helping anchor its daily analysis of political and cultural news.
- America's Newsroom: She assumed the role of co-anchor alongside Bill Hemmer, guiding viewers through morning breaking news and political developments.
- Podcasting and Writing: She has hosted various podcasts, including Perino on Politics, and authored multiple books focusing on her career, professional advice, and personal experiences.
In 2010, President Barack Obama appointed her to the Broadcasting Board of Governors, a bipartisan role where she helped oversee U.S. international broadcasting entities. She also spent time teaching political communication at George Washington University, mentoring students interested in media and government relations.
Physical Profile and Personal Life
Public interest often centers on personal statistics, and Perino's profile reflects standard public figure metrics. Standing at approximately 5 feet 2 inches (1.57 meters), she maintains a polished, professional on-air presence. Born on May 9, 1972, she is 54 years old.
She met her husband, Peter McMahon, in 1997 on a flight to Denver, and the couple married in 1998. They reside primarily in the New York and Washington areas. Perino is also well-known among her followers for her love of dogs, frequently sharing updates about her Hungarian Vizslas on social media.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dana Perino's exact age?
Dana Perino was born on May 9, 1972. As of 2026, she is 54 years old.
How tall is Dana Perino?
She is approximately 5 feet 2 inches tall.
When did she serve as White House Press Secretary?
She served as the White House Press Secretary under President George W. Bush from September 2007 to January 2009. She was the second woman to hold the position.
What are her current roles on Fox News?
She co-anchors America's Newsroom on weekday mornings and serves as a co-host on the afternoon roundtable program The Five.
Is Dana Perino an author?
Yes, she has written several books, including memoirs and professional guides that draw upon her experiences in Washington and the media industry.
