Tony Garza

Antonio Oscar "Tony" Garza Jr. (born July 7, 1959) is an American lawyer and diplomat who was the United States Ambassador to Mexico from 2002 to 2009 under President George W. Bush. In recognition of his work, Mexico bestowed on him the Águila Azteca, the highest award granted to foreigners, in 2009. Prior to his appointment as ambassador, Garza had served as Secretary of State of Texas from January 1995 to November 1997 and was also chairman of the Texas Railroad Commission.

Early life and education Garza was born in Brownsville, Texas, the son of a gasoline station owner and the grandson of Mexican immigrants to the United States.

Career After practicing as an attorney, Garza became a judge in Cameron County in 1988.

In 2002, he was appointed U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, a position he held until 2009. This is the highest award that Mexico bestows on foreigners. Thereafter, he took a position as counsel with White & Case LLP and also as chairman of management consultancy firm Vianovo Ventures. The couple divorced in May 2010. He subsequently married Dr Liz Beightler.