David P. Buckson, American lawyer and politician, Governor of Delaware (1960-1961) (b. 1920)

David Penrose Buckson (July 25, 1920 – January 17, 2017) was a distinguished American lawyer and politician whose remarkable career left a notable and unique mark on the state of Delaware. Hailing from Camden in Kent County, Buckson’s dedicated public service spanned multiple high-profile roles, reflecting his deep commitment to the First State. A decorated veteran of World War II, he was a staunch member of the Republican Party and achieved the distinct honor of serving as Delaware's 15th Lieutenant Governor, the 63rd Governor for a pivotal nineteen-day period, and later the 37th Attorney General.

A Distinguished Career in Delaware Politics and Law

Born and raised in Delaware, David P. Buckson's path to public service was multifaceted, encompassing military duty, a profound legal profession, and a significant political career. His life exemplified a dedication to civic responsibility and the welfare of his home state.

Military Service and Early Life

Before embarking on his extensive political journey, David Penrose Buckson served his country with honor during World War II as a member of the United States Army Air Forces. This period of military service, a common and formative experience for many leaders of his generation, undoubtedly instilled in him a discipline, resilience, and commitment that would characterize his subsequent civilian career. After his wartime service, Buckson pursued his legal education with dedication, graduating from the prestigious University of Baltimore Law School. His comprehensive legal training provided him with a robust foundation for understanding the intricacies of state governance, jurisprudence, and public policy, which would prove invaluable in his later public roles.

From Lieutenant Governor to Attorney General: Buckson's Political Journey

Buckson's political career in Delaware was marked by a series of significant appointments and elections, demonstrating his versatility, leadership capabilities, and commitment across different branches of state government.

• Lieutenant Governor of Delaware: David P. Buckson first ascended to statewide elected office as the 15th Lieutenant Governor of Delaware, serving from January 17, 1957, until December 30, 1960. In this crucial constitutional capacity, he worked alongside Governor J. Caleb Boggs, fulfilling vital duties such as presiding over the Delaware State Senate and being prepared to assume the governorship in the event of the governor's incapacitation, resignation, or removal from office. This role provided him with intimate knowledge of legislative processes and executive responsibilities.
• The Nineteen-Day Governorship: One of the most historically unique and defining aspects of Buckson's extensive public service career was his brief, yet significant, tenure as the 63rd Governor of Delaware. His governorship, lasting precisely nineteen days, occurred from December 30, 1960, to January 17, 1961. This highly unusual interim period was necessitated by the resignation of the sitting Governor, J. Caleb Boggs, who stepped down from his gubernatorial post to take his newly elected seat in the United States Senate. As stipulated by the Delaware Constitution, Buckson, then the Lieutenant Governor, automatically ascended to the highest executive office for the remainder of the unexpired term. This ensured a seamless and constitutional transition of power, serving as a placeholder until Governor-elect Elbert N. Carvel was officially sworn into office on January 17, 1961, at the conclusion of his predecessor's term. Despite its brevity, this period underscored the robust constitutional mechanisms of gubernatorial succession in Delaware and highlighted Buckson's preparedness for the state's highest office.
• Attorney General of Delaware: Following his interim governorship, David P. Buckson continued his dedication to public service in a different, but equally critical, capacity as the 37th Attorney General of Delaware, a role he held from January 17, 1961, to January 19, 1965. As the chief legal officer of the state, he was responsible for advising state agencies, representing the State of Delaware in legal proceedings, prosecuting cases on behalf of the public, and ensuring the impartial enforcement of Delaware's laws. This significant role allowed him to directly apply his extensive legal background to the administration of justice and the intricate landscape of state governance.

Frequently Asked Questions About David P. Buckson's Public Service

Who was David Penrose Buckson?

David Penrose Buckson was a distinguished American lawyer and Republican politician from Delaware (1920-2017). He is notable for serving as Delaware's Lieutenant Governor, a brief but historic period as interim Governor, and later as Attorney General, in addition to being a veteran of World War II.

Why was David P. Buckson only Governor of Delaware for 19 days?

David P. Buckson served as Governor for 19 days, from December 30, 1960, to January 17, 1961, because he constitutionally ascended to the governorship from his role as Lieutenant Governor. This occurred when the sitting Governor, J. Caleb Boggs, resigned to take his newly elected seat in the U.S. Senate. Buckson's brief term ensured continuity of government until the newly elected Governor, Elbert N. Carvel, was inaugurated on January 17, 1961.

What other prominent roles did David P. Buckson hold in Delaware government?

Beyond his unique nineteen-day governorship, David P. Buckson held two other significant statewide offices: he served as the 15th Lieutenant Governor of Delaware from 1957 to 1960, and subsequently as the 37th Attorney General of Delaware from 1961 to 1965. His career showcased a comprehensive engagement with Delaware's executive, legislative support, and legal branches of government.

Where was David P. Buckson from in Delaware?

David Penrose Buckson was from Camden in Kent County, Delaware. Camden is a town located in the central part of the state, south of the capital city of Dover.