What Happened to Dana Marie Perino?

Dana Perino's career trajectory is marked by a significant shift from high-level political communications to a prominent role in broadcast journalism and authorship. Born on May 9, 1972, in Evanston, Wyoming, Perino began her career in Washington D.C., working for Congressmen Scott McInnis and Dan Schaefer. She later served as a spokesperson for the Department of Justice and then as Associate Director of Communications for the White House Council on Environmental Quality.

Her most notable political appointment came during the George W. Bush administration, where she served as Deputy Press Secretary from 2005 to 2007 before being appointed Assistant to the President and White House Press Secretary in September 2007. She was the second woman and the first Republican woman to hold this prestigious position, serving until the end of the Bush administration in January 2009. After her time in the White House, Perino transitioned to media, joining Fox News as a political commentator in 2009. She was nominated by President Barack Obama to the Broadcasting Board of Governors in November 2009, serving until December 2012.

Perino quickly became a staple at Fox News, co-hosting "The Five" since 2011, a program that has achieved significant ratings success, including becoming the most-watched program in cable news in late 2024. In early 2021, she also began co-anchoring "America's Newsroom" with Bill Hemmer. Her roles involve discussing daily headlines, political issues, and moderating debates among co-panelists. Beyond television, Perino has authored several best-selling non-fiction books, including "And the Good News Is..." and "Everything Will Be Okay: Life Lessons for Young Women." She also hosts the "Perino on Politics" podcast, which delves into election cycle news.

As of March 2026, Perino continues her demanding schedule at Fox News, actively participating in the network's political coverage, including commentary on the 2025 Inauguration Day and ongoing political analysis. A significant new development in her career is the upcoming release of her debut fiction novel, "Purple State," a romantic comedy set to be published on April 21, 2026. She has scheduled book signings and podcast recordings to promote the novel in May 2026. This venture into fiction marks a new chapter, showcasing her versatility beyond political commentary. Perino lives in New York City with her husband, Peter McMahon, and their dog, Percy.