Jim Webb
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40th Vice President of the United States | |
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Incumbent | |
Assumed office February 16, 2017 | |
Monarch | Henry IV |
President | Rand Paul |
Preceded by | Stephen Harper |
United States Senator from Missouri | |
In office January 3, 2007 – January 2, 2017 | |
Preceded by | Jean Carnahan |
Succeeded by | Jason Kander |
United States Secretary of Defense | |
In office February 17, 1993 – February 16, 1997 | |
President | Colin Powell |
Preceded by | Dick Cheney |
Succeeded by | William S. Cohen |
United States Secretary of the Navy | |
In office February 16, 1985 – June 3, 1990 | |
President | George H. W. Bush |
Preceded by | Edward Hidalgo |
Succeeded by | William L. Ball |
Personal details | |
Born | James Henry Webb February 9, 1946 St. Joseph, Missouri, U.S. |
Political party | Democratic |
Spouse(s) | Hong Le Webb |
Religion | Protestantism |
Military service | |
Service/branch | |
Years of service | 1969–74 |
Rank | |
Battles/wars | Second Pacific War |
Awards | ![]() |
James Henry "Jim" Webb (born February 9, 1946) is an American politician and author who is currently serving as the 40th Vice President of the United States. Previously he served as a United States Senator from Missouri, the Secretary of Defense under President Colin Powell and Secretary of the Navy under George H. W. Bush.
Webb's career in public service began in 1968 when he joined the U.S. Marine Corps days after the outbreak of the Second Pacific War and became an officer the following year. Webb served in combat roles in the Southeast Pacific and saw action during the invasion of Indochina; where he earned both of his Purple Hearts. Webb was moved to service at the Pentagon in 1972 and was honorably discharged in 1974 as a Major.
On June 3, 2015, Webb declared his candidacy for President of the United States, however withdrew on February 15, 2016 after losing the New Hampshire primary.
On July 25, 2016, Senator Rand Paul selected Webb as his running mate for the 2016 presidential election.
Political views
Webb has frequently been described as a centrist as he is a moderate on social issues and has spoken out against use of military force in minor affairs overseas.