Jim Tucker | |
---|---|
Speaker of the Louisiana House of Representatives | |
Member of the Louisiana House of Representatives from the 86th district | |
In office January 14, 2008 – January 9, 2012 | |
Preceded by | Joe R. Salter |
Succeeded by | Chuck Kleckley |
In office 2001–2012 | |
Preceded by | Stephen J. Windhorst |
Succeeded by | Rodney Lyons |
Personal details | |
Born | James Wayne Tucker November 11, 1964 New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
Political party | Republican |
Spouse | Marisol |
Children | 2 |
Education | University of New Orleans (BS) |
Profession | Investment banker, real estate developer, CEO |
James Wayne "Jim" Tucker (born November 11, 1964) is an American politician and businessman who served as a Republican member of the Louisiana House of Representatives, representing the 86th District from 2002 to 2012.[1] He served as Speaker of the House from 2008 to 2012, succeeding Joe R. Salter and preceding Chuck Kleckley.[2]
Tucker was born in New Orleans, Louisiana.[3] He attended Louisiana State University (LSU) and later graduated from the University of New Orleans with a degree in finance.[4]
Tucker began his career in investment banking and real estate development before entering politics.[5]
He was first elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives in 2001, winning a special election to fill a vacancy created by the resignation of Stephen J. Windhorst.[5] He was subsequently re-elected in 2003 and 2007 without opposition.[5] As Speaker, he played a significant role in steering the House's legislative agenda, often opposing tax increases and supporting business-friendly policies.[4] He was known for his efforts to convert state retirement plans for new hires from defined benefit plans to defined contribution plans, aiming for greater fiscal sustainability.[5]
In 2011, Tucker ran for Louisiana Secretary of State but was narrowly defeated by the incumbent, Tom Schedler.[2][6] Tucker received 49.53% of the vote, while Schedler secured 50.47%.[6]
After leaving the legislature, Tucker transitioned to the business sector. In 2015, he was appointed CEO of CommCare Corp., a company managing geriatric care facilities based in New Orleans.[7]
Tucker is married to Marisol, and they have two children. The family resides in Terrytown, Louisiana.[5]