Before he rose to prominence, the Democrat had already laid the foundation for a life of public service. He earned his J.D. from Baylor Law School in 1965, marking the beginning of a career deeply rooted in law and governance. During those early years, he also served in the Texas National Guard, demonstrating his commitment to duty. His political journey took a significant turn when he became the 74th Secretary of State of Texas, serving from 1973 to 1977. This role helped shape his leadership experience, paving the way for an even greater responsibility—serving as the 43rd Governor of Texas from 1983 to 1987. As governor, he brought a steady hand to state affairs, guided by his background in law and public administration. Throughout it all, he remained grounded in family life. He and his wife, Linda Gale Thompson, raised two sons and a daughter, balancing a demanding career with personal devotion. His legacy, built on service and integrity, continues to reflect the values he upheld throughout his time in office.
He served as the 46th Attorney General of Texas, a role that helped shape his political career before he decided to run for governor. As he gained experience and visibility in that position, it became clear that he was setting his sights on higher office. His time as Attorney General of Texas was marked by several high-profile cases and policy initiatives, further establishing his reputation statewide. And when the opportunity came, he stepped forward as a candidate for governor, building on the foundation he had laid as Attorney General of Texas.