5 Surprising Facts About Chasten Buttigieg: Pete Buttigieg’s Husband, Author, And LGBTQ+ Advocate
Chasten Buttigieg, the husband of former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, has transcended the traditional role of a political spouse to become a prominent author, teacher, and powerful voice for LGBTQ+ rights and family advocacy. As of December 23, 2025, his public profile continues to grow, marked by new literary projects and a continued focus on issues impacting children and marginalized communities.
Far from being just a supporting figure, Chasten Glezman Buttigieg has cultivated his own platform, sharing candid stories about his life, his journey of self-acceptance, and the realities of raising a family in the public eye. His recent activities, including the promotion of his new children's book, keep his perspective fresh and relevant, offering a unique glimpse into the life of one of America's most visible political families.
Chasten Buttigieg: Full Biography and Profile
Chasten James Glezman Buttigieg, often simply known as Chasten, has a background rooted in the Midwest, which deeply informs his perspective as a public figure. His journey from a small town in Michigan to the national political stage is a testament to his resilience and commitment to education and advocacy.
- Full Name: Chasten James Glezman Buttigieg
- Born: June 23, 1989
- Birthplace: Traverse City, Michigan
- Parents: Sherri and Terry Glezman
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Theater and Global Studies from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire; Master's degree in Education from Northwestern University.
- Career: Former junior high school and high school teacher (humanities and drama), Author, LGBTQ+ Advocate, Senior Consultant specializing in preparing political leaders and their families.
- Spouse: Pete Buttigieg (married June 16, 2018).
- Children: Twins, Joseph August “Gus” and Penelope Rose (born August 2021).
- Notable Works: I Have Something to Tell You: A Memoir (2020), Papa's Coming Home (Children's Book, 2025).
- Political Role: Served as the "First Gentleman" of South Bend, Indiana, during Pete Buttigieg's mayoral term; prominent political spouse during the 2020 Democratic presidential primary and the Biden-Harris Administration.
From Midwestern Roots to National Advocacy
Chasten Buttigieg’s early life in Traverse City, Michigan, provided the foundation for his later work as a teacher and advocate. Growing up as the youngest of three brothers, he experienced the challenges of coming out in a small Midwestern town, a journey he candidly details in his bestselling memoir, I Have Something to Tell You.
His professional career began in education, teaching humanities and drama to middle and high school students. This background in teaching gave him a deep appreciation for the power of storytelling and the importance of representation, which he now leverages on a national scale.
The turning point in his public life came in 2015 when he met Pete Buttigieg, then the mayor of South Bend, Indiana. Their relationship blossomed, leading to their marriage in 2018. This union made them one of the most visible gay couples in American politics, shattering barriers and providing a powerful symbol of progress and acceptance.
During Pete’s tenure as Mayor of South Bend, Chasten took on the informal title of "First Gentleman," focusing his efforts on local issues and community engagement. When Pete launched his historic 2020 presidential campaign, Chasten became a relatable and energetic political spouse, using his platform to connect with voters and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, mental health awareness, and the importance of public education.
The Buttigieg Family Life and New Literary Ventures
The Buttigieg family expanded in August 2021 with the arrival of their twins, Joseph August, affectionately known as "Gus," and Penelope Rose. Their journey to fatherhood through adoption was openly shared, providing visibility and normalizing the experience of gay parents for countless families across the country.
Chasten has often spoken about the challenges and joys of balancing family life with a high-profile political career, especially with Pete serving as the Secretary of Transportation in the Biden-Harris Administration. His public discussions about the realities of fatherhood, from the exhaustion to the unconditional love, resonate with parents everywhere.
His role as a father directly inspired his latest literary project. In 2025, Chasten is actively promoting his new children's book, Papa's Coming Home. This picture book, which he has been signing at various author events in May 2025, is a charming story about the bond between a parent and child, reinforcing themes of love, family, and resilience.
This new book follows the success of his 2020 memoir, I Have Something to Tell You, which became a New York Times bestseller. The memoir explored his personal struggles, including his experiences with homelessness after coming out, and his eventual journey to finding acceptance and love with Pete.
Chasten’s Enduring Role as an LGBTQ+ and Educational Consultant
Beyond his writing, Chasten Buttigieg has solidified his position as a respected voice in political consulting and advocacy. He works as a senior consultant, using his unique experience as a political spouse to help prepare leaders, candidates, and their families for the intense scrutiny of public life.
His advocacy work is deeply focused on the LGBTQ+ community. He regularly speaks at universities and organizations, discussing the impact of allyship, the importance of representation, and the urgent need for inclusive policies in education and beyond. His background in theater and global studies from his university days continues to inform his ability to connect with diverse audiences.
Chasten’s willingness to be vulnerable and authentic—whether discussing the challenges of his childhood, the complexities of political life, or the simple joys of being a "Papa"—has made him a highly relatable figure. He has used the visibility gained during Pete’s political ascent, from the South Bend mayoralty to the presidential campaign, to champion causes that matter most to him.
As Pete Buttigieg, a Harvard graduate, Rhodes scholar, and Navy veteran, continues his career in public service, Chasten remains an essential partner and a powerful force in his own right. Their life together, raising their twins and navigating the Washington, D.C. political landscape, is a modern American story that continues to inspire and challenge traditional norms.
Chasten Buttigieg’s trajectory is a clear indication that the role of a political spouse has evolved. He is not just Pete Buttigieg's husband; he is a dedicated author, a former teacher, and an influential advocate who is shaping the national conversation on family, identity, and public service for the next generation.
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