Joe Frank Harris - Definition and Overview

Joe Frank Harris (born February 16, 1936) is an American politician who served as the Governor of the U.S. state of Georgia from 1983 to 1991.

Harris was born in Atco, Georgia and he graduated from the University of Georgia in 1958. Harris was persuaded to run for the Georgia House of Representatives in 1964 and has served nine terms. Harris became the chairman of the Appropriations Committee in 1974.

When he ran for Governor in 1982, Harris was seen as a dark horse candidate, but with the support of the Speaker of the Georgia House, he was able to win the primary. As Governor, Harris implemented education reform and he helped to build the Georgia Dome and lure the 1996 Summer Olympics to Atlanta.

After his two terms as Governor, Harris was appointed to the Board of Regents at the University of Georgia.