Is Robert Gates A-List?
NoB
No — Robert Gates is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 2006
Secretary of Defense
Lost A-list status in 2011
Dropped to B tier — Retires as Secretary
Ranking Timeline
1991B$1M
Director of Central Intelligence
Appointed as Director of Central Intelligence (DCI).
2006A▲$2M+$1M
Secretary of Defense
Appointed as United States Secretary of Defense.
2011B▼$6M+$4M
Retires as Secretary
Ends his tenure as Secretary of Defense.
2012B$7M+$1M
Chancellor of William & Mary
Appointed as Chancellor of the College of William & Mary.
2026B$8M+$1M
Elder Statesman & Author
Remains a respected figure, author, and commentator on security issues.
Last updated: February 25, 2026