John Ashcroft's Biography
Securing America in Times of Crisis:
John Ashcroft is credited with overseeing a historic era of safety and security in wake of the tragic events of September 11th. Under his watch, the Justice Department focused on initiating a tough anti-terrorism campaign that has assisted in disrupting numerous terrorist plots worldwide. In addition to his focus on national security, Mr. Ashcroft led the Department in taking criminals off the street, reducing gun crime, targeting illegal drugs, and protecting civil rights so that no American felt outside the protection of the law.
An Established Public Servant:
Calling him “a man of great integrity, a man of great judgment and a man who knows the law,” President George W. Bush announced his nomination of John Ashcroft to serve as U.S. Attorney General on December 22, 2000. Mr. Ashcroft began his life of public service in 1973, when he became Missouri Auditor and was later appointed to two terms as the state’s Attorney General. His service to the state of Missouri continued when he assumed the position of Governor in 1985 and U.S. Senator in 1994. In these capacities, Mr. Ashcroft established himself as a public servant dedicated to combating illegal drugs, reducing crime, safeguarding the rights of crime victims, and improving the quality of public education.