Bob Bentley (politician)

Bob Bentley (born February 3, 1943) is an American politician and physician who served as the 53rd Governor of Alabama from 2011 until his impeachment and removal from office in 2017. A member of the Republican Party, Bentley previously served in the Alabama House of Representatives from 2003 to 2011, representing District 63.

Bentley graduated from the University of Alabama and earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine. He practiced dermatology in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, for many years before entering politics.

During his time as governor, Bentley focused on economic development, education reform, and infrastructure improvements. He oversaw efforts to recruit new businesses to the state and worked to improve Alabama's public education system.

Bentley's governorship was marred by controversy, particularly surrounding an alleged affair with a political advisor. In 2016, he faced impeachment proceedings related to misuse of state resources and campaign finance violations. He initially denied the allegations but later pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor charges of violating campaign finance law and failing to report campaign expenditures. As part of a plea agreement, he resigned from office in April 2017. He was succeeded by Lieutenant Governor Kay Ivey.