Marco Rubio, a prominent political figure and U.S. Senator from Florida, has often piqued public interest not only for his political views but also for his personal life. He’s been married to Jeanette Christina Dousdebes Rubio for over two decades. Their enduring marriage, rooted in shared faith and family values,
has supported Rubio throughout his career’s many challenges and achievements. But who is Jeanette, the woman behind the senator? This article dives into the Rubio family dynamics, Jeanette’s background, their relationship’s evolution, and their dedication to family and faith.
Who is Jeanette Rubio?
Jeanette Rubio was born on December 5, 1973, in Miami, Florida, to Cuban immigrant parents. Despite facing early challenges due to her parents’ divorce, Jeanette grew up in a close-knit family with strong values. After graduating high school, she attended Miami Dade College and initially worked as a bank teller. Jeanette is not only known as Marco Rubio’s wife but also as a community leader with a career dedicated to charitable work, especially focusing on human trafficking victims.
Jeanette’s involvement with various nonprofit organizations and her role in the Braman Family Charitable Foundation highlight her commitment to serving others. Through JDR Consulting, Inc., she helps evaluate grant requests for organizations in South Florida, partnering with groups like Kristi House, a child advocacy center combatting child sex trafficking.
How Did Marco and Jeanette Rubio Meet?
The love story between Marco and Jeanette began during their teenage years. They met at a mutual friend’s party while Jeanette was attending South Miami Senior High School, and Marco was a college student. Initially, their relationship remained platonic,
but they reconnected in 1997 and began dating. In a romantic gesture at the Empire State Building, Marco proposed to Jeanette, and the couple married in 1998 at the Church of the Little Flower in Coral Gables, Florida.
Jeanette’s family values and her grounded personality appealed to Marco, who was already aspiring to a career in politics. She was supportive but also realistic about the challenges political life could impose on their relationship and family.
Jeanette Rubio: A Foundation of Support in Marco’s Political Career
Jeanette has been instrumental in shaping Marco Rubio’s political journey. From the beginning, she sought to maintain stability within their family despite the demands of a political life. During Marco’s time as a Florida state representative, she often traveled from South Florida to the capital in Tallahassee, bringing a sense of home and reminding him of his family obligations. Jeanette’s conservative beliefs also helped shape some of Marco’s positions, particularly on social issues like abortion.
As Marco pursued a Senate seat in 2010, Jeanette expressed the importance of him being home as much as possible, ensuring he balanced his political ambitions with his role as a husband and father. Her influence on Marco has been so significant that friends often note her as a guiding force in his life, encouraging him to remain true to their values.
Jeanette Rubio’s Role in the Community
Despite her introverted nature, Jeanette has played a significant role in public service. She joined the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders briefly in 1997, but quickly left, preferring a quieter lifestyle. Instead, Jeanette has dedicated herself to causes close to her heart,
particularly in combating human trafficking and supporting at-risk women and children. Through her involvement with the Braman Family Charitable Foundation, she evaluates nonprofits seeking funding, helping ensure these organizations receive the support they need.
Jeanette has also served on the board of various nonprofit organizations, including the Agape Network and the Statewide Council on Human Trafficking. She is known in the community as a compassionate leader and an ambassador of goodwill.
Faith and Family Life
The Rubios’ marriage is grounded in shared faith and commitment to family values. They regularly attend church and participate in faith-based events, such as a Christian couples retreat in Maui in 2014, where they learned more about effective communication and mutual support. Marco has often spoken about how Jeanette has kept him grounded and provided balance, helping him navigate the pressures of a public career.
Their home life in West Miami reflects this commitment. They prioritize family activities and spend quality time with their four children—daughters Daniella and Amanda, and sons Anthony and Dominick. Jeanette structures her schedule around her children’s needs, shuttling them to school, sports, and other activities.
Marco Rubio’s Career and Its Impact on Family Life
Politics has not always been easy on the Rubio family. Marco’s early campaigns, including his run for the U.S. Senate, demanded long hours and travel. At one point, he even considered moving his family to Washington, D.C., but Jeanette preferred to stay in Miami to provide stability for their children. Ultimately, the Rubios decided to keep their roots in South Florida, allowing Marco to travel for work while preserving a sense of normalcy at home.
As Marco’s career advanced, Jeanette continued to manage the family’s daily life and maintain their household’s moral compass. She often provided Marco with a reality check, reminding him of his role as a husband and father. During his tenure as Speaker of the Florida House, Jeanette’s gentle teasing reminded him of his responsibilities outside politics, helping him stay humble and connected to his family.
The Future for Marco and Jeanette Rubio
As Marco Rubio continues his Senate career, Jeanette’s steadfast support remains a cornerstone of his life. Her focus on family, charity, and faith provides a strong foundation for both Marco’s political aspirations and their personal lives. The Rubios’ commitment to their values has not only sustained their marriage but also helped Marco connect with his constituents, offering them a glimpse of the man behind the political title.
Their journey demonstrates the importance of family support in the often-demanding world of politics, highlighting how shared beliefs and mutual respect can sustain a marriage through the most challenging circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Marco Rubio married?
Yes, Marco Rubio has been married to Jeanette Christina Dousdebes Rubio since 1998. They have a strong, enduring marriage rooted in shared faith and family values.
2. How did Marco and Jeanette Rubio meet?
Marco and Jeanette met as teenagers through a mutual friend. They reconnected in 1997, and Marco proposed at the Empire State Building. They married the following year.
3. How many children do Marco and Jeanette Rubio have?
The Rubios have four children: Daniella, Amanda, Anthony, and Dominick. Their family life is centered around their children’s needs and activities.
4. What does Jeanette Rubio do professionally?
Jeanette works with the Braman Family Charitable Foundation through her consulting firm, JDR Consulting, Inc. She evaluates nonprofit organizations seeking funding and supports various causes, especially those fighting human trafficking.
5. What role does faith play in Marco and Jeanette Rubio’s marriage?
Faith is a cornerstone of the Rubios’ marriage. They regularly attend church and participate in faith-based retreats, which strengthen their bond and shared values.