Paul Bruce Carpenter (February 24, 1928 – January 24, 2002) was an American psychologist and politician. Born in Sioux City, Iowa, Carpenter went to the University of Iowa and received a doctorate degree in experimental psychology from Florida State University. He moved to Orange County, California in 1960 and worked as a psychologist. Carpenter lived in Cypress, California. He was involved with the Democratic Party. From 1974 to 1976, Carpenter served in the California State Assembly. He then served in the California State Senate from 1976 to 1986. Carpenter also served on the California Board of Equalization from 1986 to 1990. In 1990,Carpenter was convicted of racketeering, conspiracy, and extortion. He fleed to Costa Rica before sentencing and was extradited to the United States. He se