Nathaniel Willis "Tan" Parker IV was born on May 22, 1971, and is a Republican politician from North Texas. He grew up in Flower Mound working in his family's restaurants while volunteering in his community. He is married to Beth and has two daughters, Lauren and Ashley.

Parker is a businessman and entrepreneur with a distinguished career in technology and private equity. He founded Applied Business Strategies and has served as Executive Vice President of Tri Vac Limited.

Education

Parker earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Philosophy from the University of Dallas and a Master of Science in Economics from the London School of Economics. He also attended the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania.

Political Experience

Parker has held significant positions throughout his legislative career:

• Texas State Senate, District 12 : Represents one of the fastest-growing areas in the nation, encompassing parts of Dallas, Denton, and Tarrant counties as well as all of Wise County.

• Texas Senate Majority Leader : Currently serves as the majority leader in the state senate.

• Texas House of Representatives, District 63 : Served for 16 years before transitioning to the senate.

• House Republican Caucus Chair : Led the Republican majority in the Texas House with two consecutive terms as chairman.

Parker currently serves as Vice Chair of the Veteran Affairs & Border Security Committee and holds membership on the Criminal Justice, Education, Natural Resources, and State Affairs committees. His legislative focus includes economic development, fiscal responsibility, medical freedoms, public safety, child protection, and human trafficking prevention. He has received recognition for his conservative leadership and advocacy for common-sense policies that strengthen Texas.