Does Pete Buttigieg Have A Husband? Yes, Pete Buttigieg is married to Chasten Buttigieg. This article from PETS.EDU.VN delves into the details of their relationship, from how they met to their life as parents. Discover more about their heartwarming story and the impact they’ve made together, plus understand key aspects of their life that resonate with many modern families. Learn more about their pets, family life, and public service impact.
1. Who is Chasten Buttigieg?
Chasten Buttigieg, born Chasten Glezman on June 23, 1989, is the husband of Pete Buttigieg, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation. He’s an accomplished author and former teacher. He grew up in Chums Corner, Michigan, and earned a bachelor’s degree in theater and global studies from the University of Wisconsin—Eau Claire in 2014. He later obtained a master’s degree in education from DePaul University.
1.1. Early Career and Education
After graduating from the University of Wisconsin—Eau Claire, Chasten worked as a teaching artist in Milwaukee. He then moved to Chicago to pursue his graduate degree at DePaul University. During his time in graduate school, he worked as a substitute teacher in both Chicago and South Bend, Indiana, public schools. After earning his master’s degree in 2017, he taught middle school humanities in Mishawaka, Indiana. He also led a diversity club and taught theater at the Montessori Academy. His career took a turn when he took a leave of absence to support Pete’s 2020 presidential campaign.
1.2. A Difficult Coming Out Experience
Chasten came out as gay at the age of 18. This was a challenging time for him as he navigated disclosing his sexuality to his conservative Roman Catholic family. As the youngest of three brothers, he faced initial tension and a period of couch-surfing and living out of his car.
He shared with The New York Times in 2018, “I decided at 18 that I needed to come out. And I don’t recall my parents specifically saying I couldn’t live at home anymore, but I was made to believe I needed to leave.”
Over time, his family grew to be supportive of him and his marriage. His mother, Sherri Glezman, told The New York Times, “I don’t want to say we were shocked. But, from our perspective, I was sad for him that, having two brothers that were into every sport, as roughneck as it comes, Chasten would be afraid of being perceived as different, or not as much of a man.”
1.3. Meeting Pete Buttigieg
Chasten and Pete connected in the summer of 2015 via the dating app Hinge. Pete, who was recovering from an injury at the time, initiated the conversation. He found Chasten to be witty and engaging, especially when they discussed Game of Thrones.
Pete recalled on the LGBTQ&A podcast, “I could just tell by the chatting that he was somebody special and that I wanted to meet him.”
After exchanging messages and having long-distance FaceTime calls—Chasten in Chicago and Pete in South Bend—they finally met in person. Their first date included a minor league baseball game, a tour of downtown South Bend, and a walk along the St. Joseph River. From the beginning, Pete was open about his political aspirations, though Chasten was initially skeptical about dating a politician.
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1.4. A Proposal at the Airport
In December 2017, Pete proposed to Chasten at Gate B5 in Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, the very spot where Chasten first saw Pete’s profile on Hinge. The airport held symbolic meaning for their relationship, representing both their love for travel and the constant motion that came with Pete’s political career.
Pete told PEOPLE, “In many ways, the airport was symbolic of our relationship, not just because the way we love travel, but that he was literally at that spot in the airport where we first started chatting on the phone, and … by loving me, he was also signing up for a life of constant motion.”
1.5. Marriage
Pete and Chasten married on June 16, 2018, at the Episcopal Cathedral of Saint James in South Bend. The grooms wore three-piece Ted Baker suits in varying shades of blue with matching socks. The ceremony was attended by 200 guests and livestreamed on YouTube. A reading from Justice Anthony Kennedy’s majority opinion in Obergefell v. Hodges, which granted marriage equality to same-sex couples in the U.S., was included in the ceremony.
After the ceremony, the couple made a stop at a South Bend Gay Pride Week block party before heading to their reception at LangLab, an arts and co-working space in a former furniture factory. Chasten told The New York Times, “We have a lot of people coming from other places, and we wanted to give them a window and a glimpse into this really cool city.”
1.6. Family Life: Parenthood
In August 2021, Pete and Chasten announced they had become parents. Pete shared on Twitter, “For some time, Chasten and I have wanted to grow our family. We’re overjoyed to share that we’ve become parents!”
The following month, they revealed the names of their newborn twins: Joseph August “Gus” Buttigieg and Penelope Rose Buttigieg, sharing a first glimpse of their family in a black-and-white photo.
Pete reflected on fatherhood on MSNBC’s Morning Joe in October 2021, “It’s everything people tell you to expect and more. I think the biggest thing that’s surprised me is just how much joy there is, even sometimes in the hard parts.”
Since becoming parents, the couple has shared glimpses into their life with the twins, including their first trip to the White House and their first birthday celebration.
1.7. A Dog Lover
Both Pete and Chasten are dog lovers. Their dogs, Truman and Buddy Buttigieg, moved with them from South Bend to Washington, D.C., when Pete was appointed to President Joe Biden’s administration. They adopted Truman, a beagle-Labrador mix, in April 2017, and Buddy, a beagle-pug mix with one eye, joined the family in December 2018.
Chasten often shared photos of the dogs on social media, and the dogs even had their own X account with nearly 80,000 followers. Truman passed away in June 2023 after six years with the family.
Chasten wrote on Instagram, “Truman filled our lives with endless amounts of chaos and love… We will miss our sweet guy, who left this world surrounded by his family, and most importantly, after one last helping of ice cream.”
1.8. Published Author
Chasten is also a published author. In 2020, he released his memoir, I Have Something to Tell You, which covers his upbringing in Michigan, his relationship with Pete, and his experiences as the first gentleman of South Bend.
He told PEOPLE in 2020, “The book’s not a burn book. I don’t want to offend anyone. I never want to offend anybody… I also wanted to be really honest about what it felt like coming in as a political newbie.”
In May 2023, he released a young adult adaptation of his memoir, aiming to reach younger audiences, especially during a time when LGBTQ+ youth books faced bans in schools across the U.S.
He told PEOPLE that this was “the book I wish I could go back in time and hand to younger Chasten.” He expanded on his own stories of “growing up in an environment where I did not know it was okay to be gay,” particularly ones he thought would resonate with younger people.
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2. How Did Pete and Chasten Buttigieg Meet?
Pete and Chasten Buttigieg first connected through the dating app Hinge in the summer of 2015. Pete was recovering from an injury and decided to reach out to Chasten after finding his profile.
2.1. Initial Connection on Hinge
Pete described Chasten as “pretty witty” and recalled that their initial conversations included discussions about Game of Thrones. After chatting online, they progressed to long-distance FaceTime calls. Chasten was in Chicago, while Pete was in South Bend.
2.2. First Date Details
Their first in-person date was a memorable one. They attended a minor league baseball game, toured downtown South Bend, and enjoyed a walk along the St. Joseph River. Pete was open about his political ambitions from the beginning, which Chasten found a bit daunting.
2.3. Overcoming Initial Skepticism
Chasten admitted he was initially skeptical about getting involved with a politician. He asked Pete about his future plans, and Pete was candid about his political aspirations. Despite his reservations, Chasten was drawn to Pete’s sincerity and vision.
3. When Did Pete and Chasten Buttigieg Get Married?
Pete and Chasten Buttigieg got married on June 16, 2018. The wedding took place at the Episcopal Cathedral of Saint James in South Bend, Indiana.
3.1. Wedding Ceremony Highlights
The ceremony was attended by 200 guests and was also livestreamed on YouTube for those who couldn’t attend in person. The grooms wore matching socks and three-piece Ted Baker suits in different shades of blue. The ceremony included a reading from Justice Anthony Kennedy’s majority opinion in Obergefell v. Hodges, which was a significant moment celebrating marriage equality.
3.2. Post-Wedding Celebrations
Following the ceremony, Pete and Chasten made an appearance at a South Bend Gay Pride Week block party, where they took photos with attendees. The reception was held at LangLab, an arts and co-working space, offering guests a glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture.
4. Do Pete and Chasten Buttigieg Have Children?
Yes, Pete and Chasten Buttigieg are parents to twins, Joseph August “Gus” Buttigieg and Penelope Rose Buttigieg. They announced the arrival of their children in August 2021.
4.1. The Announcement of Parenthood
The couple shared their joy on social media, with Pete tweeting, “For some time, Chasten and I have wanted to grow our family. We’re overjoyed to share that we’ve become parents!” They also expressed gratitude for the support and respect for their privacy during the process.
4.2. Welcoming Gus and Penelope
In September 2021, Pete and Chasten revealed the names of their twins and shared a heartwarming black-and-white photo of themselves each holding one of their newborns. The twins have since become a significant part of their public life, with the couple sharing glimpses of their family moments.
4.3. Life as Parents
Pete has spoken about the joys and challenges of fatherhood, noting the immense joy even in the demanding parts of raising twins. The couple has offered glimpses into their life with Gus and Penelope, including their first trip to the White House and their first birthday celebration.
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5. What Kind of Pets Do Pete and Chasten Buttigieg Have?
Pete and Chasten Buttigieg are known to be dog lovers. They had two dogs named Truman and Buddy.
5.1. Truman: A Beloved Companion
Truman, a beagle-Labrador mix, was adopted by Pete and Chasten in April 2017. He quickly became a beloved member of their family, known for his chaotic energy and loving nature. Truman’s rescue story was particularly touching, as he came from a truck full of dogs saved from kill shelters.
5.2. Buddy: The One-Eyed Beagle-Pug Mix
Buddy, a beagle-pug mix with one eye, joined the family in December 2018. He added even more love and companionship to their household. Both Truman and Buddy became minor celebrities, even having their own X account with a large following.
5.3. The Passing of Truman
In June 2023, Truman passed away after six years with Pete and Chasten. His loss was deeply felt, and Chasten shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, remembering Truman’s unique personality and the joy he brought to their lives.
6. What is Chasten Buttigieg Known For Professionally?
Professionally, Chasten Buttigieg is known for his work as an author and a former teacher.
6.1. Teaching Career
Chasten began his career as a teaching artist and later taught middle school humanities at the Montessori Academy in Mishawaka, Indiana. He also led a diversity club and taught theater. His passion for education and his commitment to creating an inclusive environment for his students were evident throughout his teaching career.
6.2. Author and Advocate
Chasten gained wider recognition as an author with the release of his memoir, I Have Something to Tell You, in 2020. The book details his personal journey, including his upbringing, coming out experience, and relationship with Pete. In 2023, he released a young adult adaptation of his memoir, aiming to provide support and inspiration to LGBTQ+ youth.
6.3. Public Figure and Advocate
As a public figure, Chasten has become an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness. He uses his platform to share his experiences and promote acceptance and understanding.
7. What are Some Key Moments in Pete and Chasten Buttigieg’s Relationship?
Pete and Chasten Buttigieg’s relationship is marked by several key moments that highlight their love, commitment, and shared values.
7.1. Meeting on Hinge
Their initial connection on the dating app Hinge is a pivotal moment, showcasing how modern relationships can begin in unexpected ways.
7.2. The Airport Proposal
Pete’s proposal at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport is a romantic and symbolic gesture, representing their love for travel and the constant motion of their lives together.
7.3. Their Wedding Day
Their wedding on June 16, 2018, was a celebration of their love and a statement of their commitment to marriage equality.
7.4. Becoming Parents
The arrival of their twins, Gus and Penelope, in 2021 marked a new chapter in their lives, filled with joy and challenges as they navigated parenthood together.
7.5. Supporting Each Other’s Careers
Throughout their relationship, Pete and Chasten have been supportive of each other’s careers and personal endeavors. Chasten took a leave of absence from teaching to support Pete’s presidential campaign, and Pete has been a constant source of support for Chasten’s writing and advocacy work.
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8. How Has Chasten Buttigieg Influenced Pete Buttigieg’s Political Career?
Chasten Buttigieg has played a significant role in Pete Buttigieg’s political career, offering support, perspective, and a relatable human connection.
8.1. Campaign Support
Chasten was a visible and active presence during Pete’s 2020 presidential campaign. He traveled extensively, attended rallies, and connected with voters, bringing a fresh and engaging perspective to the campaign trail.
8.2. Humanizing the Candidate
Chasten helped humanize Pete, sharing personal stories and insights that made him more relatable to voters. His openness about his own experiences and his genuine warmth resonated with many people, helping to broaden Pete’s appeal.
8.3. Advocacy for Important Issues
Chasten’s advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness has also influenced Pete’s political platform. Their shared commitment to these issues has helped to shape Pete’s policy positions and priorities.
9. What Are Some Challenges Pete and Chasten Buttigieg Have Faced as a Couple?
Like any couple, Pete and Chasten Buttigieg have faced their share of challenges, both personal and public.
9.1. Navigating Public Scrutiny
As a high-profile couple, Pete and Chasten have had to navigate intense public scrutiny. Their relationship and personal lives have been subject to media attention and public opinion, which can be challenging.
9.2. Balancing Career and Family
Balancing demanding careers with family life is a common challenge for many couples, and Pete and Chasten are no exception. Pete’s role as Secretary of Transportation and Chasten’s work as an author and advocate require significant time and commitment, making it essential to find ways to prioritize their relationship and family.
9.3. Addressing Societal Issues
As a same-sex couple in the public eye, Pete and Chasten have faced discrimination and prejudice. They have used their platform to address these issues and advocate for greater acceptance and equality.
10. What Lessons Can Be Learned from Pete and Chasten Buttigieg’s Relationship?
Pete and Chasten Buttigieg’s relationship offers several valuable lessons about love, commitment, and resilience.
10.1. The Importance of Open Communication
Open and honest communication is essential for any successful relationship. Pete and Chasten have demonstrated the importance of sharing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with each other.
10.2. Supporting Each Other’s Dreams
Supporting each other’s dreams and aspirations is crucial for a strong partnership. Pete and Chasten have shown how supporting each other’s careers and personal endeavors can lead to greater fulfillment and success.
10.3. Embracing Authenticity
Being true to oneself and embracing authenticity is vital for building a genuine and lasting relationship. Pete and Chasten have inspired many by living openly and honestly, despite the challenges they have faced.
10.4. Valuing Family
Valuing family and prioritizing quality time together is essential for maintaining a strong connection. Pete and Chasten have demonstrated the importance of making time for each other and their children, despite their busy schedules.
10.5. Standing Up for What You Believe In
Standing up for what you believe in and advocating for important causes is a powerful way to make a difference in the world. Pete and Chasten have used their platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, mental health awareness, and other important issues, inspiring others to do the same.
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FAQ: Pete and Chasten Buttigieg
1. How did Pete Buttigieg meet his husband?
Pete Buttigieg met his husband, Chasten, on the dating app Hinge in the summer of 2015.
2. When did Pete and Chasten Buttigieg get married?
Pete and Chasten Buttigieg got married on June 16, 2018.
3. Do Pete and Chasten Buttigieg have any children?
Yes, Pete and Chasten Buttigieg have twins, Joseph August “Gus” Buttigieg and Penelope Rose Buttigieg, who were born in August 2021.
4. What is Chasten Buttigieg’s profession?
Chasten Buttigieg is an author and former teacher.
5. What are the names of Pete and Chasten Buttigieg’s dogs?
Pete and Chasten Buttigieg had two dogs named Truman and Buddy. Truman passed away in June 2023.
6. Where did Pete Buttigieg propose to Chasten?
Pete Buttigieg proposed to Chasten at Gate B5 in Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport.
7. What is the title of Chasten Buttigieg’s memoir?
The title of Chasten Buttigieg’s memoir is I Have Something to Tell You.
8. How has Chasten Buttigieg supported Pete Buttigieg’s political career?
Chasten Buttigieg has supported Pete Buttigieg’s political career by campaigning with him, connecting with voters, and advocating for important issues.
9. What is one of the biggest challenges Pete and Chasten Buttigieg have faced as a couple?
One of the biggest challenges Pete and Chasten Buttigieg have faced is navigating public scrutiny as a high-profile couple.
10. What is a key lesson that can be learned from Pete and Chasten Buttigieg’s relationship?
A key lesson that can be learned from Pete and Chasten Buttigieg’s relationship is the importance of open communication and supporting each other’s dreams.
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