Larry Speakes, American journalist, 16th White House Press Secretary (b. 1939)

Larry Speakes: A Key Voice in the Reagan White House

Larry Melvin Speakes (September 13, 1939 – January 10, 2014) was a distinguished American journalist and seasoned political spokesperson best known for his pivotal role as the de facto White House Press Secretary during the presidency of Ronald Reagan, serving from 1981 to 1987. His assumption of duties came under extraordinary circumstances following the assassination attempt on President Reagan on March 30, 1981, which left the then-duly appointed Press Secretary, James S. Brady, critically wounded.

Early Life and Formative Career

A native of northwest Mississippi, Speakes pursued his higher education at the University of Mississippi, laying the groundwork for a career deeply embedded in public communication. In the 1960s, he honed his skills as a journalist, working as a newspaper reporter, which provided him with invaluable insights into media operations and public information dissemination. This journalistic background proved foundational for his subsequent transition into political roles.

From Capitol Hill to the Nixon White House

Speakes transitioned from journalism to political communications in 1968, becoming the press secretary for Democratic Senator James Eastland of Mississippi. Eastland, a long-serving and influential figure, was then the Chairman of the United States Senate Committee on the Judiciary, a powerful committee overseeing critical legislative and judicial appointments. In this capacity, Speakes not only managed media relations for a prominent senator but also served as the primary spokesperson for the Judiciary Committee, gaining significant experience in federal policy communication.

His career trajectory led him to the highest levels of government in 1974, when he joined President Richard Nixon's administration as a Staff Assistant. Critically, he quickly advanced to become the Press Secretary to the Special Counsel to the President during the intense period known as the Watergate scandal. This role placed him at the very heart of the unfolding political crisis, requiring him to manage sensitive information and media inquiries for Leon Jaworski, the Special Prosecutor tasked with investigating the scandal. Navigating the tumultuous environment of Nixon's final days, Speakes gained unparalleled experience in high-stakes crisis communication.

Serving Presidents Ford and Reagan

Following President Nixon's resignation in August 1974, Speakes seamlessly transitioned into the administration of the new President, Gerald R. Ford, who appointed him Assistant Press Secretary to the President. His continued service underscored his perceived competence and reliability. In 1976, Speakes further expanded his political communications experience when he served as the press secretary for Senator Bob Dole during his unsuccessful vice-presidential campaign as Ford's running mate.

Prior to joining the Reagan administration, Speakes applied his extensive governmental public relations experience in the private sector, working for the internationally renowned public relations firm, Hill & Knowlton. This tenure in a leading global PR agency further broadened his strategic communication expertise before his return to the White House.

The Reagan Years: Navigating Crisis and Communication

Larry Speakes' most prominent and challenging role began in 1981 when he joined President Ronald Reagan's team. His appointment as Principal Deputy Press Secretary took on immediate and profound significance when, just 69 days into the Reagan presidency, James S. Brady was gravely wounded in an assassination attempt on President Reagan. Though Brady heroically survived, his injuries rendered him unable to return to the demanding duties of the Press Secretary. Consequently, Speakes effectively assumed the day-to-day responsibilities of the White House press briefers, serving as the primary on-record spokesperson for the President from 1981 until 1987. While he became the public face and voice of the administration's media relations, it's important to note that James Brady retained the official title of White House Press Secretary until his death in 2014, a tribute to his service and sacrifice.

During his six years at the White House podium, Speakes was instrumental in shaping the public narrative of the Reagan presidency. He managed press relations through various domestic and international crises, major policy announcements, and significant events, including summit meetings, economic reforms, and national security matters. Known for his calm demeanor, Speakes played a crucial role in maintaining public confidence during President Reagan's recovery and throughout his two terms. His tenure was not without controversy, however, as he later admitted in his memoir, "Speaking Out: The Reagan Years" (1988), to occasionally fabricating quotes and attributing them to President Reagan when he felt it was necessary to meet press deadlines or provide a clear public stance, a practice that drew considerable criticism for its implications on journalistic integrity and presidential transparency.

Frequently Asked Questions About Larry Speakes

What was Larry Speakes' primary role in the Reagan administration?

Larry Speakes served as the Principal Deputy Press Secretary and the primary on-record spokesperson for President Ronald Reagan from 1981 to 1987, effectively acting as the White House Press Secretary following James Brady's incapacitation.

Why did Larry Speakes take over White House press briefings in 1981?

Speakes assumed the role of the primary briefer after White House Press Secretary James S. Brady was severely wounded during the assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan on March 30, 1981. Brady's injuries prevented him from returning to duty, making Speakes the de facto spokesperson.

What was Larry Speakes' background before joining the White House?

Prior to his White House roles, Speakes worked as a journalist in the 1960s. He then served as press secretary for Democratic Senator James Eastland and as spokesperson for the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary. He also worked in the Nixon and Ford administrations, including as Press Secretary to the Special Counsel during Watergate and Assistant Press Secretary to President Ford.

Did Larry Speakes ever face any controversy during his time as spokesperson?

Yes, in his 1988 memoir, "Speaking Out: The Reagan Years," Speakes admitted to fabricating quotes and attributing them to President Reagan on occasion to fulfill press demands, a revelation that sparked significant debate regarding media ethics and the transparency of presidential communications.

When did Larry Speakes pass away?

Larry Speakes passed away on January 10, 2014, at the age of 74.