Early Life and Education: Foundations of a Politics Career
Born on July 22, 1988, in Rochester, New York, Erin was raised in a family deeply rooted in public service. Her parents, both attorneys, and her great-grandfather, a former police chief, instilled in her a sense of civic duty. Erin attended Our Lady of Mercy High School, where she participated in student union, cheerleading, and lacrosse. She later furthered her education by studying Political Science and History at the University of Connecticut, graduating magna cum laude in 2010
Stepping into Politics: Early Career Milestones
Erin started her political journey with an internship at the 2008 Republican National Convention. This experience led to roles in various political campaigns, including Senator Ron Johnson’s in Wisconsin. She was also press secretary for Representative Paul Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, honing her skills in media relations and strategic communications
Rising Through the Ranks: Key Positions Held
Throughout her career, Erin has held several notable positions:
- Communications Director for Senator Jon Kyl: Focused on messaging related to immigration reform and national security.
- National Press Secretary for the NRCC: Developed media strategies for the 2016 and 2018 election cycles.
- Director of Press Communications for the Trump Campaign: Served as a national spokesperson in the 2020 election cycle.
- Director of Strategic Communications for the RNC: Oversees the RNC’s messaging and media strategy.
Personal Life: Balancing Career and Family
In 2010, Erin met Nicholas “Nick” Perrine while working on Senator Ron Johnson’s campaign. Their professional collaboration grew into a personal relationship, leading to their marriage on July 2, 2016, at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle in Washington, D.C. Nick, a former Marine Corps officer, is now the Director of Executive Operations at the National Rifle Association (NRA). The couple lives in Virginia, balancing their demanding careers with a shared commitment to public service.
A Personal Tragedy: Turning Loss into Advocacy
Just weeks prior to her wedding, Erin lost her brother, Eamon, to a heroin overdose. This personal tragedy deeply affected her, leading her to advocate for addiction awareness. In a heartfelt tribute, she had a piece of Eamon’s shirt sewn into her wedding dress, symbolizing his enduring presence in her life.
Distinctive Traits: Heterochromia and Public Presence
Erin is known for her distinctive appearance, particularly her heterochromia iridum—a condition where her eyes are two different colors, one blue and one brown. This rare genetic trait gives her a more unique presence in the public eye.