Deaths on May 6

Jim Wright, American soldier, lawyer, and politician, 56th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives (b. 1922)

James Claude Wright Jr., more widely known as Jim Wright, was a towering figure in American politics, particularly within the Democratic Party. Born on December 22, 1922, and passing away on May 6, 2015, his long and impactful career culminated in his service as the 48th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1987 to 1989. For an impressive 34 years, from 1955 to 1989, he steadfastly represented Texas's 12th congressional district as a Democrat, a period that saw significant social and political transformation across the nation.

Early Life and Political Beginnings

Born and raised in the vibrant city of Fort Worth, Texas, Jim Wright's journey into public service began with a profound experience during World War II. He served with distinction in the United States Army Air Forces, an experience that shaped his perspective and commitment to his country. Upon returning home, he quickly transitioned into the political arena, winning election to the Texas House of Representatives. This early tenure in state politics provided a crucial foundation, preparing him for the broader stage of national governance. In 1954, Wright successfully campaigned for a seat in the U.S. Congress, securing the representation of his home district, which notably included Fort Worth itself. This victory marked the beginning of his decades-long career in Washington D.C.

Navigating a Shifting South: Civil Rights and Congressional Service

Wright’s time in Congress was marked by the seismic shifts of the Civil Rights era, a period that often presented complex choices for Southern Democrats. Unlike many of his contemporaries from the South, Wright demonstrated an early independent streak by refusing to sign the controversial 1956 Southern Manifesto. This document, signed by over 100 Southern members of Congress, vehemently opposed racial integration in public places and condemned the Supreme Court's landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision. His refusal to endorse it positioned him apart from the more staunchly segregationist wing of his party, even as he navigated the political realities of his Texas constituency. His voting record on civil rights legislation further illustrates this complex stance: he voted in favor of the Civil Rights Act of 1960, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the Civil Rights Act of 1968, significant pieces of legislation aimed at dismantling systemic discrimination. However, earlier in his career, he had voted against the Civil Rights Acts of 1957 and 1964, and the 24th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which abolished the poll tax in federal elections. This nuanced record reflects the evolving political climate and the internal deliberations faced by many Southern politicians during this transformative period. Beyond civil rights, Wright also rose to become a senior and influential member of the House Public Works Committee, a powerful committee responsible for critical infrastructure projects, from highways and bridges to federal buildings, allowing him to directly impact the development and growth of communities nationwide, including his own.

The Path to Leadership: Majority Leader and Speaker

Jim Wright's influence in the House steadily grew, leading to a pivotal moment in 1976 when he narrowly won the fiercely contested election for House Majority Leader. This role is second only to the Speaker in the House hierarchy, responsible for managing the legislative agenda for the majority party and often serving as a key spokesperson. His victory underscored his considerable organizational skills and ability to build consensus within the Democratic caucus. Later, in August 1983, Wright cast a significant vote in favor of the bill establishing Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a federal holiday, a testament to the ongoing evolution of civil rights in America and his continued engagement with the issue. Following the retirement of the legendary Speaker Tip O'Neill in 1987, Jim Wright reached the pinnacle of his congressional career, ascending to the prestigious position of Speaker of the House. As Speaker, he became the presiding officer of the House and the leader of the majority party, holding immense power to shape the legislative landscape and serving as third in the line of succession to the presidency, behind the Vice President and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate.

The Speakership and a Clash with the Executive

As Speaker, Jim Wright was a formidable legislative leader, unafraid to challenge the executive branch. A notable instance of his leadership came in March 1988, when he galvanized the House Democratic Caucus to successfully override President Ronald Reagan's veto of the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987. This act was designed to reverse the Supreme Court's 1984 Grove City College v. Bell decision, which had narrowed the application of anti-discrimination laws. The override was a powerful demonstration of congressional authority and Wright’s ability to unite his party, asserting the legislative branch's will over the President's, especially on an issue as fundamental as civil rights. This period highlighted Wright's assertive style and his commitment to the Democratic agenda, often putting him at odds with the Reagan administration.

Resignation and Legacy

Wright's distinguished career, however, came to an abrupt end. In June 1989, he resigned from Congress amidst a highly publicized House Ethics Committee investigation. The inquiry centered on allegations regarding compensation he and his wife had received, including scrutiny over book deals and other financial arrangements. While the specific findings were complex and widely debated at the time, the intense scrutiny and political pressure ultimately led to his decision to step down from his leadership position and his congressional seat. Following his departure from the political spotlight, Wright returned to his home state, embarking on a new chapter as a professor at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, where he shared his vast experience and insights with future generations. Jim Wright passed away in his beloved Fort Worth in 2015, leaving behind a complex legacy as a powerful, sometimes controversial, but undeniably influential figure in 20th-century American politics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jim Wright

Who was Jim Wright?

Jim Wright was an American politician who notably served as the 48th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1987 to 1989. He represented Texas's 12th congressional district as a Democrat for 34 years, from 1955 to 1989.

What was Jim Wright's stance on Civil Rights?

Jim Wright had a complex and evolving record on civil rights. He famously refused to sign the 1956 Southern Manifesto and voted for the Civil Rights Act of 1960, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the Civil Rights Act of 1968. However, earlier in his career, he voted against the Civil Rights Acts of 1957 and 1964, and the 24th Amendment, reflecting the nuanced political landscape of the South during that era.

When did Jim Wright serve as Speaker of the House?

Jim Wright served as Speaker of the House from 1987 to 1989, succeeding the iconic Tip O'Neill.

Why did Jim Wright resign from Congress?

Jim Wright resigned from Congress in June 1989 amid an investigation by the House Ethics Committee concerning allegations of improper financial compensation received by him and his wife, including scrutiny over book deals.

What was Jim Wright's post-congressional career?

After leaving Congress, Jim Wright became a professor at Texas Christian University in his hometown of Fort Worth, Texas.