Paul Ryan Fast Facts Here's a look at the life of former House Speaker Paul Ryan. Personal Birth place: Janesville, Wisconsin Father: Paul M. Ryan, an attorney Mother: Elizabeth "Betty" (Hutter) Ryan Douglas Marriage: Janna (Little) Ryan (December 2, 2000-present) Children: Liza, Charlie, Sam Religion: Roman Catholic Double-majored in economics and political science at Miami University (Ohio). Ryan is a fitness buff and enjoys bow hunting. Timeline 1993-1995 - Staff assistant and speechwriter for the Empower America think tank, which was co-founded by Rep. Jack Kemp (R-NY). 1995-1997 - Legislative director for Senator Sam Brownback of Kansas. November 3, 1998 - Is elected to the US House of Representatives for the 1st District of Wisconsin. Ryan is reelected in 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014 and 2016.