Dana Perino at a Glance
- Categories: Politicians, Politicians > Republicans
- Net Worth: $6 Million
- Birthdate: May 9, 1972 (52 years old)
- Birthplace: Evanston
- Gender: Female
- Profession: Commentator, Talk show host, Journalist
- Nationality: Italy
- Height: 5 ft 1 in (1.57 m)
Dana Perino’s Net Worth and Career: A Look at the Political Commentator’s Life
Introduction: Dana Perino’s Influence
Dana Perino is a prominent figure in American political commentary, known for her insightful analysis, conservative viewpoints, and engaging presence on television. Beyond her work as a political analyst, she is recognized for her roles as a former White House Press Secretary and author. This article delves into Dana Perino’s net worth, her career trajectory, and her influence in the media landscape.
Dana Perino’s Net Worth: How She Built Her Wealth
Dana Perino’s net worth is estimated to be $6 million. Her wealth is a culmination of a successful career spanning several fields, including politics, media, publishing, and authorship. Her income sources include:
- Fox News Commentator Salary: Perino’s primary source of income is her role as a political commentator on Fox News, where she has hosted and co-hosted various programs.
- Book Royalties: As an author, Perino has earned royalties from her books, contributing to her overall net worth.
- Podcast Earnings: Her podcasting ventures, including “Perino on Politics,” generate income through advertising, sponsorships, and other revenue streams.
- Speaking Engagements: Perino is often sought after as a public speaker, commanding fees for appearances at conferences, events, and other engagements.
Early Life and Education: The Foundation of Her Career
Dana Perino was born on May 9, 1972, in Evanston, Wyoming. She spent her childhood in Denver, Colorado. Her educational background laid the groundwork for her career in communication and politics.
- Education: She attended Ponderosa High School in Parker, Colorado, and graduated from Colorado State University-Pueblo with a degree in Mass Communications in the mid-1990s.
- College Activities: During her college years, Perino was actively involved in college radio, producing and hosting programs focused on politics and public affairs. She was also a member of the forensics (speech and debate) team and worked at the campus PBS affiliate, KTSC-TV.
- Master’s Degree: She furthered her education by earning a Master’s Degree in Public Affairs Reporting from the University of Illinois at Springfield while working at CBS affiliate WCIA as a daily reporter covering the Illinois Capitol.
Political Career Highlights: From Capitol Hill to the White House
Perino’s political career is marked by significant roles and responsibilities within the U.S. government.
- Early Roles: She began her career as a staff assistant for Rep. Scott McInnis and later served as the press secretary for Rep. Dan Schaefer.
- Department of Justice: In 2001, she became a spokesperson for the Department of Justice.
- White House Positions: She served as the Associate Director of Communications for the White House Council on Environmental Quality before rising to the position of Deputy Press Secretary under President George W. Bush.
- White House Press Secretary: She became the Acting White House Press Secretary during Tony Snow’s cancer treatment in 2007 and subsequently took over full Press Secretary duties from 2007 to 2008. She was only the second woman to hold the position.
- Final Role: From September 2008 to January 2009, she served as Assistant to the President and White House Press Secretary.
Post-White House Career: Television, Books, and Podcasts
After leaving the White House, Perino transitioned to a successful career in media and publishing.
- Fox News: She became a political commentator for Fox News, co-hosting “The Five” from 2009.
- Broadcasting Board of Governors: She was nominated by President Obama and confirmed by the Senate to serve on the Broadcasting Board of Governors in June 2010.
- Teaching: She also taught political communications at George Washington University’s Graduate School of Political Management.
- Publishing: Perino worked as a book editorial director / publishing executive for Crown Publishing Group.
- Podcasting: In September 2016, she started the podcast “Perino & Stirewalt: I’ll Tell You What” (with Chris Stirewalt). In 2023, she started hosting “Perino on Politics” on Fox News Radio.
- Television Anchor: She co-anchored “America’s Newsroom” with Bill Hemmer.

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Personal Life and Legacy: Beyond the Headlines
Dana Perino’s personal life includes her marriage and her love for her pets. She met her husband, Peter McMahon, on a flight in 1997, and they married the following year. They reside in Bay Head, New Jersey. She is also recognized for her dogs.
- Family: She is married to Peter McMahon.
- Pets: She is known for her dogs, including her Vizsla, Jasper, who passed away in September 2021, and their current dog, Percy.
- Recognition: In 2023, she received an honorary doctorate of Humane Letters from her alma mater, CSU Pueblo.
Conclusion: Dana Perino’s Enduring Impact
Dana Perino’s career is a testament to her skills, hard work, and adaptability. From her early days in college to her significant roles in the White House and her successful transition to media, she has established herself as a respected voice in American political commentary. Her net worth reflects the breadth and depth of her accomplishments, solidifying her position as a prominent figure in contemporary media.