Who is Mitch McConnell Wife? All About Elaine Chao & Children

Elaine Chao is no stranger to Washington, D.C. A powerhouse in American politics and business, she made history as the first Asian-American woman to serve in a U.S. president’s cabinet. But beyond her impressive resume, she’s also known as the wife of longtime Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell.

Elaine Chao’s Early Life and Immigration Story

Born on March 26, 1953, in Taipei, Taiwan, Elaine Chao’s journey to the United States is nothing short of inspiring. At the age of eight, she immigrated with her family in search of better opportunities. Over the years, her dedication to public service and leadership skills propelled her to remarkable heights.

A Career Built on Breaking Barriers

Chao’s political career is impressive. She served as the U.S. Secretary of Labor under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009 and later as the U.S. Secretary of Transportation under President Donald Trump from 2017 to 2021. These roles cemented her legacy as a pioneering figure in American politics.

Love, Marriage, and Political Power

Elaine Chao and Mitch McConnell met in the early 1990s through mutual connections at the conservative Heritage Foundation. Sparks flew, and the couple tied the knot on February 6, 1993, in an intimate ceremony in New York City. Fun fact: then-Secretary of Transportation Dick Cheney stood as McConnell’s best man!

While Chao and McConnell never had children together, McConnell has three daughters—Elly, Porter, and Claire—from his first marriage to Sherrill Redmon. His daughters have largely remained out of the public eye.

Mitch McConnell’s Wealth and Political Legacy

At 83 years old, Mitch McConnell has built a legacy as one of the most influential politicians in recent American history. His estimated net worth was $52.01 million as of January 2025, according to Congress Live Net Worth Tracker. A significant portion of his wealth comes from his family’s financial background, making him one of the wealthiest members of Congress.

Recently, McConnell announced he would not seek reelection in 2026, marking the end of an era. The Kentucky senator has served since 1985 and stepped down from his leadership role in January 2025, passing the torch to Senator John Thune of South Dakota.

Together, Elaine Chao and Mitch McConnell have been a formidable political couple, shaping policies and influencing American governance for decades. Whether in the Senate or the White House cabinet, their impact on U.S. politics is undeniable.