Births on February 12

Arlen Specter, American lieutenant, lawyer, and politician (d. 2012)

Arlen Specter: A Distinguished Career in U.S. Politics

Arlen Specter (February 12, 1930 – October 14, 2012) was a highly influential American lawyer, author, and politician whose career spanned several decades, leaving a significant mark on both state and national politics. Best known for his extensive tenure as a United States Senator representing Pennsylvania, Specter served an impressive 30 years from 1981 to 2011. This remarkable duration cemented his legacy as the longest-serving senator in Pennsylvania's history, a testament to his enduring presence and electoral success in the state.

Specter's political journey was uniquely characterized by his shifting party affiliations. He began his career as a Democrat from 1951 to 1965. Subsequently, he became a prominent Republican, serving under that banner from 1965 until 2009. In a notable late-career move, he reverted to the Democratic Party in 2009. This unusual trajectory often positioned him as a centrist figure, willing to cross party lines and engage in bipartisan dialogue.

Early Life, Education, and Formative Legal Career

Born in Wichita, Kansas, Arlen Specter was the son of emigrant Russian and Ukrainian Jewish parents, an upbringing that often shaped his perspective on civil liberties and social justice. His academic foundation began at the University of Pennsylvania, where he completed his undergraduate studies. Following his graduation, Specter dedicated a period of his early life to national service, joining the United States Air Force and serving during the Korean War era, a conflict spanning from 1950 to 1953. This military experience often provided a backdrop to his later public service.

Upon completing his military service, Specter pursued advanced legal education at the prestigious Yale Law School, a leading institution known for producing influential legal minds. After earning his law degree, he co-founded a law firm with Marvin Katz, who would later achieve distinction as a federal judge. This early legal practice provided him with invaluable experience that would serve him well in future roles.

A pivotal moment in Specter's early legal career came with his appointment as assistant counsel for the Warren Commission. This high-profile commission was established by President Lyndon B. Johnson in the aftermath of President John F. Kennedy's assassination to investigate the facts and circumstances surrounding the tragic event. Within this role, Specter played a crucial part in the formulation of the controversial "single-bullet theory." This theory, formally known as the "single-projectile theory," posits that a single bullet, fired by Lee Harvey Oswald, passed through President Kennedy and then struck Governor John Connally, causing all seven of their wounds. While widely accepted by the Warren Commission, it has remained a subject of debate and scrutiny among critics for decades.

In 1965, Specter successfully transitioned from legal practice to public office, being elected as the District Attorney of Philadelphia. This significant local executive position, which he held until 1973, served as a crucial stepping stone into the broader political arena, allowing him to gain experience in public administration and law enforcement at a major municipal level.

A Senate Career Defined by Centrist Politics and Influence

During his three decades in the U.S. Senate, Arlen Specter cultivated a reputation as a political centrist, often operating as a pragmatic moderate. This approach allowed him to build bridges across the aisle but also sometimes put him at odds with the more extreme factions of both parties. His ability to work with members from across the political spectrum was a hallmark of his legislative style, often seeking compromise and consensus on complex issues.

A highlight of his Senate career was his tenure as Chair of the powerful Senate Judiciary Committee from 2005 to 2007. This committee holds immense influence over critical areas, including the confirmation of presidential nominees to the federal judiciary, oversight of the Department of Justice, and consideration of legislation on civil liberties, constitutional amendments, and criminal justice reform. His leadership in this role underscored his deep understanding of legal principles and his commitment to judicial integrity.

Specter's effectiveness and independent spirit did not go unnoticed. In 2006, the esteemed magazine Time recognized his significant contributions by selecting him as one of "America's Ten Best Senators," an accolade that highlighted his legislative skill, intellectual prowess, and dedication to public service.

Despite his long and distinguished career, Specter's bid for a sixth term in 2010 faced significant challenges. Having switched back to the Democratic Party in 2009, he encountered a spirited primary challenge from former U.S. Navy vice admiral Joe Sestak. Specter ultimately lost the Democratic primary to Sestak, marking the end of his illustrious Senate career. Sestak then went on to lose the general election to Republican Pat Toomey, who subsequently succeeded Specter, officially taking office on January 3, 2011.

Health Battles and Enduring Legacy

Arlen Specter demonstrated remarkable resilience and dedication throughout his life, particularly during his public battle with cancer. Diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in early 2005, he bravely continued his demanding work in the Senate while simultaneously undergoing rigorous chemotherapy treatments. His perseverance in the face of such a severe illness was widely admired and served as an inspiration to many.

He passed away on October 14, 2012, at the age of 82, from complications of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. While Hodgkin's lymphoma originates in lymphocytes (white blood cells) and can be highly curable, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a more common and diverse group of cancers that also start in lymphocytes but can be more challenging to treat depending on the specific type. Specter's enduring legacy is that of a dedicated public servant, a sharp legal mind, and a political moderate who prioritized statesmanship and the interests of Pennsylvania throughout his distinguished career.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arlen Specter

When did Arlen Specter serve as a U.S. Senator?

Arlen Specter served as a United States Senator from Pennsylvania for 30 years, from 1981 to 2011.

What was Arlen Specter's political party affiliation history?

Specter began as a Democrat (1951-1965), then became a Republican (1965-2009), and finally switched back to the Democratic Party in 2009.

What was the "single-bullet theory" and Specter's role in it?

The "single-bullet theory" proposes that a single bullet struck both President John F. Kennedy and Governor John Connally during the 1963 assassination. Arlen Specter, as assistant counsel for the Warren Commission, was instrumental in formulating and presenting this theory.

What major committee did Arlen Specter chair in the Senate?

Arlen Specter served as the Chair of the influential Senate Judiciary Committee from 2005 to 2007, overseeing judicial nominations and critical legislation.

Why is Arlen Specter considered a "centrist" politician?

Specter was known for staking out a spot in the political center, often demonstrating a willingness to work across party lines, seek compromise, and adopt pragmatic positions rather than strictly adhering to one party's ideological platform.