Peter Kent Navarro was born on July 15, 1949, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He grew up in a working-class family with his mother, Evelyn Littlejohn, a Saks Fifth Avenue secretary, and his father, Alfred Navarro, a saxophonist and clarinetist. After his parents’ divorce, Peter moved with his mother to Florida, where he spent most of his childhood.
Navarro’s academic journey began at Tufts University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1972. He later pursued a Master’s in Public Administration from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government and a Ph.D. in Economics from Harvard as well.
Career
Peter Navarro’s career has spanned academia, politics, and economics, making him a well-known public figure.
Academic Career
Navarro started his career as an academic, teaching at the University of California, Irvine, for over two decades. He has authored several books on economics and public policy, including “Death by China” and “Crouching Tiger: What China’s Militarism Means for the World.” His academic work primarily focused on macroeconomics, energy policy, and the U.S.-China trade relationship.
Political Career
Navarro’s foray into politics began in the 1990s when he ran for public office in San Diego, though unsuccessfully. His significant political breakthrough came in 2016 when he joined Donald Trump’s presidential campaign as a trade advisor. Navarro’s views on trade, particularly his criticism of China’s trade practices, aligned with Trump’s economic agenda.
After Trump’s election, Navarro was appointed as the Director of the National Trade Council, a newly created position. He later served as the Director of the Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy. In these roles, Navarro was a key architect of the Trump administration’s trade policies, including tariffs on Chinese goods and renegotiating trade agreements.
Post-Administration
After Trump’s presidency, Navarro continued to be an influential voice in economic and political circles. He remained active in media, often appearing on news programs to discuss trade and economic policy.
Relationships
Peter Navarro is married to Leslie LeBon, an architect. The couple met in the early 2000s and got married in 2001. They have a son together. Leslie LeBon has supported Navarro throughout his career, providing a stable family life amidst his hectic professional endeavors.
Navarro’s relationships within the political sphere have been notably contentious at times. His hardline stance on trade and outspoken nature have led to both strong alliances and significant adversaries.
Real Estate
Peter Navarro and his wife Leslie LeBon own a home in Laguna Beach, California. The property, designed by LeBon, is a testament to her architectural prowess. The house features modern design elements and boasts stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Navarro’s real estate investments are relatively modest compared to some of his political counterparts, focusing primarily on their family home.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Peter Navarro’s estimated net worth is around $5 million. His wealth primarily comes from his academic career, book royalties, and salary from his government positions. Navarro’s books, particularly those critical of China, have been commercially successful, contributing significantly to his net worth.
Navarro’s government salary during his tenure in the Trump administration also played a role in his financial standing. Additionally, his continued involvement in media and consulting work post-administration has helped maintain his income stream.
Age and Other Aspects
Peter Navarro is currently 75 years old. Despite his age, he remains an active figure in public discourse, frequently engaging in economic debates and political commentary.
Health and Lifestyle
Navarro is known for his disciplined lifestyle. He has maintained a rigorous routine of physical fitness and a balanced diet, which has contributed to his sustained energy and sharpness in his professional life.
Publications and Media Appearances
Navarro has authored numerous books and research papers, with a focus on economics and trade policy. His book “Death by China” was even adapted into a documentary film, highlighting his significant influence on public opinion regarding U.S.-China relations.
Navarro’s media appearances have also made him a recognizable figure. He often provides commentary on economic issues on major news networks, bringing his expertise to a broader audience.
Controversies
Navarro’s career has not been without controversy. His aggressive stance on China and his role in the trade wars during the Trump administration drew criticism from various quarters. Critics argue that his policies led to increased costs for American consumers and strained international relations. However, his supporters believe that his actions were necessary to protect American jobs and industries.
Conclusion
Peter Navarro’s life and career are a testament to his commitment to his beliefs and his willingness to challenge the status quo. From his early days in academia to his influential role in the White House, Navarro has made a significant impact on American economic policy. His net worth, while modest compared to some, reflects his success and influence in multiple fields. At 75, Navarro continues to be a prominent voice in economic and political discussions, demonstrating that age is no barrier to staying active and relevant in public life.
