Charles Goodell, American lieutenant, lawyer, and politician (b. 1926)

Charles Ellsworth Goodell Jr. (March 16, 1926 – January 21, 1987) was a prominent American politician whose career was marked by a unique ascent to power, first serving as a member of the United States House of Representatives and later as a United States Senator, both representing the state of New York. His entry into both legislative bodies followed unforeseen circumstances: in each instance, he assumed office following the deaths of his predecessors. He initially secured his House seat through a special election and subsequently became a temporary appointee to the Senate, succeeding the late Senator Robert F. Kennedy.

Goodell's political journey effectively began in 1959 when he won his first race, leading to his election to four full terms in Congress. This period established his presence in national politics. A pivotal moment in his career occurred on September 9, 1968, when he resigned from his House seat. This resignation was a direct result of accepting an appointment by then-Governor Nelson Rockefeller of New York to fill the vacancy in the United States Senate. This critical Senate seat became available due to the tragic assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy on June 5, 1968, a deeply impactful event in American political history.

His tenure in the Senate was brief but significant. In 1970, Charles Goodell sought election for a full term, campaigning with the crucial endorsement of both the Republican and Liberal parties. However, he faced a challenging electoral landscape in a highly competitive three-way race. This contest ultimately saw him lose to James L. Buckley, the candidate of the Conservative Party. Goodell's defeat was largely attributed to a significant split in the liberal vote, which was divided between himself and the Democratic Party candidate, Richard Ottinger. This outcome underscored the complex dynamics of New York State politics at the time, where multiple party lines could field strong candidates, often impacting election results by fragmenting traditional voter bases and leading to plurality victories.

Beyond his political achievements, Charles Goodell is also recognized for his family legacy. He was the father of Roger Goodell, who currently serves as the Commissioner of the National Football League (NFL), a highly influential position in American professional sports.

Frequently Asked Questions About Charles E. Goodell Jr.

When was Charles E. Goodell Jr. born and when did he pass away?
Charles E. Goodell Jr. was born on March 16, 1926, and passed away on January 21, 1987.
How did Charles Goodell first enter the U.S. House of Representatives?
He first entered the U.S. House of Representatives through a special election, filling a vacancy left by the death of his predecessor in the congressional district he sought to represent.
What circumstances led to Charles Goodell's appointment to the U.S. Senate?
He was appointed to the U.S. Senate by New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller on September 9, 1968, to fill the vacancy created by the assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy on June 5, 1968.
Why did Charles Goodell lose the 1970 Senate election?
Goodell lost the 1970 Senate election in a three-way race to Conservative Party candidate James L. Buckley. His defeat was largely due to the liberal vote being split between himself (supported by Republicans and Liberals) and Democratic Party candidate Richard Ottinger, allowing Buckley to win with a plurality of the vote.
What is Charles Goodell's connection to the NFL?
Charles Goodell Jr. was the father of Roger Goodell, who currently serves as the Commissioner of the National Football League (NFL).