Elaine Chao, born in Taiwan, began her career in the United States after immigrating with her family at the age of eight. She studied at Mount Holyoke College and Harvard Business School, where she honed her analytical skills and developed a strong work ethic. Her professional journey took off in the 1980s when she served in the Reagan administration, first as deputy chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission and later as director of the Peace Corps.

Chao’s rise to prominence was marked by her appointment as the first Asian-American woman to be appointed to a cabinet position in U.S. history. In 1991, President George H.W. Bush nominated her as the Secretary of Labor, a role she served in until 1993. Her efficient management and innovative policies during her tenure earned her widespread respect and recognition.

Elaine Chao’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Elaine Chao’s net worth is estimated to be around $15 million, according to the latest available information.

Elaine Chao’s Career

Elaine Chao is a prominent American businesswoman and public servant. She served as the U.S. Secretary of Labor from 2017 to 2021 and as the U.S. Secretary of Transportation from 2001 to 2009, making her the first Asian American woman to hold a Cabinet position. Chao also served as the Director of the Peace Corps from 1993 to 1996.

Elaine Chao’s Other Ventures

Before her political career, Chao worked in the private sector. She was a vice president at Bank of America and a banker at Citibank. She also co-founded and chaired the investment bank CCA Industries, which focused on transportation and logistics. After her tenure as Secretary of Transportation, Chao became a distinguished fellow at the Hudson Institute and a member of the board of directors for several companies, including News Corp and Wells Fargo.

Elaine Chao’s Assets

Elaine Chao’s assets include properties in the United States. She and her husband, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, own a home in Louisville, Kentucky, and an apartment in Washington, D.C. Chao also has investments in various companies, including those in the transportation and finance sectors.

Elaine Chao’s Annual Income

As a former Cabinet member, Elaine Chao’s annual income primarily comes from her speaking fees and board memberships. In 2020, she reported earning between $1.2 million and $5.5 million from these activities, according to her financial disclosure forms. Additionally, her husband’s annual income from his Senate salary contributes to their combined income.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Elaine Chao

**Q: What is Elaine Chao’s net worth?**

Elaine Chao’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million.

**Q: When was Elaine Chao born?**

Elaine Chao was born on March 10, 1953.

**Q: Where was Elaine Chao born?**

Elaine Chao was born in Taipei, Taiwan.

**Q: What is Elaine Chao’s educational background?**

Elaine Chao graduated from Mount Holyoke College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English in 1975. She later earned a Master’s degree in Public Affairs from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government in 1979.

**Q: What is Elaine Chao’s political affiliation?**

Elaine Chao is a Republican.

**Q: What positions has Elaine Chao held in the U.S. government?**

Elaine Chao has served in various positions in the U.S. government, including Director of the Peace Corps (1991-1992), Chairperson of the Federal Maritime Commission (1998-2001), and U.S. Secretary of Labor (2001-2009). She also served as the U.S. Secretary of Transportation from 2017 to 2021.

**Q: Is Elaine Chao related to any other prominent figures?**

Yes, Elaine Chao is married to Mitch McConnell, the Senate Majority Leader of the United States.

**Q: What are some of Elaine Chao’s notable achievements?**

Elaine Chao is the first Asian American woman to be appointed to a Cabinet position in U.S. history. She also served as the first Asian American woman in Congress when she was appointed to the House of Representatives in 1992.

**Q: What is Elaine Chao’s current role?**

As of now, Elaine Chao does not hold any government position. She is currently a visiting fellow at the Hudson Institute.

**Q: What are Elaine Chao’s views on immigration?**

Elaine Chao has supported immigration reform and has advocated for a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. She has also spoken out against the use of racial slurs and stereotypes to describe immigrants and has advocated for more diverse representation in government and media.