Deval Patrick is an American politician and lawyer who served as the 71st Governor of Massachusetts from 2007 to 2015. He was the first African American to hold this position in the state. Patrick is known for his focus on education reform, healthcare access, and economic development during his time in office. Before becoming governor, Patrick worked as an attorney and held various positions in both the public and private sectors, including serving as the Assistant Attorney General for the United States. After his governorship, he remained active in public life, including a brief run for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination.