Trey Gowdy Biography: Harold Watson “Trey” Gowdy III born August 22, 1964 is an American television news host, former politician, and former federal prosecutor. He represented South Carolina’s 4th congressional district, which includes much of the Upstate region such as Greenville and Spartanburg, from 2011 to 2019. Before entering Congress, Gowdy worked as a federal prosecutor in South Carolina from 1994 to 2000. He then served as the solicitor (district attorney) for South Carolina’s Seventh Judicial Circuit, covering Spartanburg and Cherokee counties, from 2000 until 2010. Between 2014 and 2016, Gowdy chaired the U.S. House Select Committee on Benghazi, which uncovered the existence of Hillary Clinton’s private email server. The committee spent over two and a half years and $7.8 million investigating the 2012 Benghazi attack but found no evidence of wrongdoing.
Trey Gowdy Biography
Trey Gowdy was born on August 22, 1964, in Greenville, South Carolina, USA. He is a writer and producer known for works such as Weekend Night in America with Trey Gowdy (2021), Forensic Files (1996), and The True Face of the Democratic Party (2021). Trey has been married to Terri Dillard since August 2, 1989, and they have two children together.
Trey Gowdy Biography 2025 Details
Born |
Harold Watson Gowdy III
August 22, 1964 |
---|---|
Political party | Republican |
Spouse |
Terri Dillard
(m. 1989) |
Children | 2 |
Education | Baylor University (BA) University of South Carolina (JD) |
Category | Politician Biography |
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Trey Gowdy Achievements
He graduated from Spartanburg High School in Spartanburg, South Carolina, in 1982. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from Baylor University in 1986 and a law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1989. Gowdy served as Chairman of the U.S. House Oversight Committee from 2017 to 2019 and was a U.S. House Representative for South Carolina from January 3, 2011, until 2019. He also chaired the U.S. House Subcommittee on Immigration during his tenure.
About Trey Gowdy
Harold Watson Gowdy III is an American television news presenter, former politician and former federal prosecutor who served as the U.S. representative for South Carolina’s 4th congressional district from 2011 to 2019.
Trey Gowdy Wiki
- Born: 22 August 1964 (age 60 years), Greenville, South Carolina, United States
- Spouse: Terri Gowdy (m. 1989)
- Education: University of South Carolina School of Law (1989) ·
- Party: Republican Party
- Children: Abigail Gowdy, Watson Gowdy
- Parents: Novalene Gowdy, Harold Watson Gowdy, Jr
Early Life and Education
Born in Greenville, South Carolina, on August 22, 1964, Gowdy is the son of Novalene (Evans) and Dr. Harold Watson “Hal” Gowdy Jr. He was raised in Spartanburg, where he worked delivering newspapers and at a local market during his youth. Gowdy graduated from Spartanburg High School in 1982. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in history from Baylor University in 1986, where he was a member of Kappa Omega Tau. He completed his Juris Doctor degree at the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1989.
Who is Trey Gowdy?
Harold Watson “Trey” Gowdy III is a former federal prosecutor and politician who transitioned from courtroom battles to the political arena as a U.S. House Representative. He gained national attention for his role in major investigations and served his South Carolina district with distinction.
Career
Trey Gowdy’s career highlights include working as a judicial law clerk, assistant U.S. attorney, and solicitor (district attorney) for South Carolina’s Seventh Judicial Circuit. He was later elected to Congress, representing South Carolina’s 4th district, where he became known for his thorough and relentless approach to legislation and oversight.
Is Trey Gowdy married?
Yes, Trey Gowdy is married to Terri Dillard Gowdy, a former beauty queen who held titles such as Miss Spartanburg and second runner-up for Miss South Carolina. The couple has two children, Watson and Abigail.
How many times did Trey Gowdy appear on Forensic Files?
Trey Gowdy’s prosecutorial work was featured in four episodes of the true-crime series Forensic Files, highlighting his involvement in death penalty cases.
Why did Forensic Files end?
The original Forensic Files series concluded on June 17, 2011. The passing of the show’s iconic narrator, Peter Thomas, in 2016 led producers to end the series, as his distinctive voice was central to the show’s identity.
How accurate is Forensic Files?
Forensic Files is praised for its factual storytelling, featuring real cases and expert interviews. The series is respected for its dedication to accurately depicting forensic science and criminal investigations.
Was Trey Gowdy ever a district attorney?
Yes, after serving as an assistant U.S. attorney, Gowdy was elected as the district attorney for South Carolina’s Seventh Judicial Circuit, a position he held before entering Congress.
Where does Trey Gowdy currently work?
After leaving Congress, Gowdy returned to practicing law with the firm Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough. He also joined Fox News as a contributor and hosts the show Sunday Night in America with Trey Gowdy.
Trey Gowdy’s Net Worth 2025
As of 2025, Trey Gowdy’s net worth is estimated to be around $6 million. This figure reflects his earnings from his legal career, political service, and current media roles.
FAQs about Trey Gowdy’s Net Worth
How did Trey Gowdy build his net worth?
Gowdy’s net worth stems from his years as a federal prosecutor, congressional salary, and ongoing legal and media work.
Has his net worth grown since leaving Congress?
While exact figures aren’t public, his involvement in law and television likely continues to increase his wealth.
Which phase of his career contributed most to his net worth?
His time in Congress and as a prosecutor are major contributors, along with his current media engagements.
Does Trey Gowdy have other business ventures?
Publicly, his primary income sources are legal practice and media; other private business interests have not been widely reported.
How does his net worth compare to other former Congress members?
His $6 million net worth is notable but varies compared to other former members, many of whom supplement their income with speaking, books, and media projects.