In an era where high-profile marriages often make headlines for the wrong reasons, Fox News anchor and former White House Press Secretary Dana Perino stands out as a rare example of enduring love. This year, she and her husband Peter McMahon are celebrating 27 years of marriage—a milestone not just in years, but in commitment, growth, and unwavering support.
In a recent heartfelt interview, Perino opened up about the secret to their lasting relationship and how her love for Peter became one of the most powerful forces behind her professional success. From politics to primetime, Dana Perino credits her husband with being the steady anchor behind the whirlwind of her public life.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without Peter,” she said. “His belief in me gave me the confidence to chase dreams I didn’t even know I had yet.”
💍 A Transatlantic Love Story
Dana met Peter McMahon—an English-born businessman—on a flight from Denver to Chicago in 1997. She was 25; he was 43. They were seated next to each other by chance. What followed was a real-life romance that blossomed into one of the most enduring love stories in political and media circles.
Despite a 18-year age difference, multiple time zones, and the demands of rising careers, Dana and Peter connected on a deeper level. They shared the same values: integrity, curiosity, and a deep respect for each other’s independence.
“We didn’t fall in love with who we thought the other person could be,” Perino shared. “We fell in love with who we were—right then and there.”
They married later that same year, beginning what Dana calls “the most honest and loving partnership” of her life.
💼 Love Behind the Podium
While Dana Perino is now a well-known media figure, she didn’t always envision a life in the spotlight. In fact, she once considered staying in local media or even leaving the field entirely. But Peter encouraged her to keep pushing forward.
His support became especially crucial when Dana was appointed White House Press Secretary under President George W. Bush—a position that would make her the second woman and first Republican woman to ever hold the role.
“Peter told me, ‘You’re ready, even if you don’t feel like you are,’” she recalled. “That faith in me changed everything.”
Whether she was walking into a high-pressure press briefing or preparing for a live debate on Fox News, Dana always knew she had someone who believed in her completely.
“Peter has never tried to dim my light,” she said. “He made room for it. He helped it shine.”
🏡 Building a Life Together
Over nearly three decades of marriage, the couple has created a rich life filled with laughter, travel, deep conversations, and even a few four-legged companions—most famously, their late dog Jasper, who became a beloved public figure in his own right.
Though they never had children of their own, Dana has often said that their marriage feels full and fulfilling. They’ve focused instead on building a partnership that supports both personal and professional growth.
“We don’t keep score,” Dana explained. “We grow together. We pivot when needed. We respect the journey.”
Their relationship isn’t just about romantic moments—it’s about resilience. From career transitions to health challenges to long-distance stints during work commitments, they’ve weathered it all side-by-side.
❤️ Love as a Launchpad
In her bestselling book And the Good News Is…, Perino credits Peter not just as a loving partner but as a life coach, strategist, and co-dreamer. Their conversations—often over morning coffee or evening walks—have sparked many of the ideas that eventually turned into her books, commentary, and public service work.
“He challenges me. He listens. And most importantly, he’s proud of me,” she said.
This unwavering encouragement has helped Dana maintain a demanding career in cable news, where she now co-hosts The Five, anchors America’s Newsroom, and remains one of the most trusted conservative voices in American media.
✨ Advice for Lasting Love and Success
When asked what advice she would give others looking to balance a successful career and a loving relationship, Dana was clear:
“Find someone who isn’t threatened by your strength. Find someone who cheers for your wins louder than anyone else in the room.”
For Dana Perino, Peter McMahon has been that person. And in return, she’s built a life not just of professional accolades, but of lasting, quiet joy.
📝 Final Thoughts
Twenty-seven years later, Dana and Peter continue to be each other’s biggest fans, best friends, and true partners. Their story is a reminder that behind many great careers, there is often a great love—steady, supportive, and unshakable.
As Dana puts it:
“Success is sweeter when you have someone to share it with. And for me, that someone has always been Peter.”
And for millions who admire her brilliance and composure on camera, it’s the love behind the headlines that tells the most inspiring story of all.