Slade Gorton, American colonel, lawyer, and politician, 14th Attorney General of Washington

Thomas Slade Gorton III (January 8, 1928 – August 19, 2020) was a distinguished American lawyer and influential politician whose career significantly impacted Washington State and national policy. A prominent figure within the Republican Party, Gorton is notably remembered for his tenure as a United States Senator from Washington, serving two non-consecutive terms: initially from 1981 to 1987, and again from 1989 until 2001.

Born in Evanston, Illinois, Gorton’s path to public service was marked by a strong academic background and military service. He was an alumnus of Dartmouth College, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa, and subsequently earned his law degree from Columbia Law School. His commitment to public service began even before his political career, serving in the United States Air Force from 1950 to 1953. Upon relocating to Washington State, Gorton began his legal practice, laying the groundwork for his extensive political career.

Gorton's political journey in Washington State commenced in the legislative branch, where he served in the Washington State House of Representatives from 1967 to 1969. His effective representation led to his election as the Washington State Attorney General, a position he held with distinction from 1969 to 1981. During his time as Attorney General, Gorton earned a reputation for his legal acumen and dedication to public welfare, which prepared him for the national stage.

His first successful bid for the U.S. Senate in 1980 saw him unseat a long-serving Democrat, marking a significant shift in Washington’s political landscape. During his initial term from 1981 to 1987, Senator Gorton established himself as a fiscal conservative with an independent streak, often working across the aisle. However, his reelection campaign in 1986 proved challenging, culminating in a narrow defeat by Democrat Brock Adams, a former U.S. Representative and Secretary of Transportation, reflecting the highly competitive nature of Washington's political scene.

Undeterred, Gorton mounted a successful comeback two years later, winning the state's other U.S. Senate seat in 1988. This victory allowed him to return to the Senate, serving from 1989 until 2001. This unique electoral history means that Slade Gorton held both of Washington State's U.S. Senate seats during his career: the Class 3 seat (1981-1987) and the Class 1 seat (1989-2001). This is a rare distinction in American politics, underscoring his resilience and broad appeal.

Throughout his Senate career, Gorton was known for his thoughtful approach to complex issues, particularly in areas like fisheries, natural resources, and telecommunications. He served on powerful committees, including the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee and the Appropriations Committee, where he advocated for Washington's interests and played a role in shaping national legislation. His fiscal conservatism was balanced by a pragmatism that often allowed him to seek bipartisan solutions.

Gorton's political career concluded with another exceedingly close election in 2000. He was narrowly defeated for reelection by Democrat Maria Cantwell. This particular contest was one of the closest U.S. Senate races in American history, requiring an extensive recount that stretched weeks beyond Election Day. The final margin of just over 2,000 votes out of more than 2.5 million cast highlighted the intense political polarization and the critical importance of every ballot.

As of 2022, Slade Gorton remains the last Republican to have served as a U.S. Senator from Washington State from either of the state's two Senate seats. His enduring legacy reflects a career dedicated to public service, marked by significant legislative contributions and a remarkable ability to navigate the complexities of national politics, even through challenging electoral cycles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slade Gorton

When did Slade Gorton serve as a U.S. Senator?

Slade Gorton served two non-consecutive terms as a United States Senator from Washington State. His first term was from 1981 to 1987, and he returned for a second tenure from 1989 until 2001.

How did Slade Gorton hold both U.S. Senate seats for Washington State?

Slade Gorton held both of Washington State’s U.S. Senate seats by winning elections for different "classes" of seats. He initially won the Class 3 Senate seat in 1980, serving until 1987. After being defeated, he successfully ran for and won the Class 1 Senate seat in 1988, serving in that capacity until 2001. This unique achievement underscores his enduring presence in Washington's political landscape.

Who defeated Slade Gorton in his Senate elections?

Slade Gorton was narrowly defeated for reelection twice. In 1986, he lost to Democrat Brock Adams. His final defeat occurred in 2000, when he was unseated by Democrat Maria Cantwell following a highly publicized and very close recount.

What was significant about the 2000 election involving Slade Gorton?

The 2000 U.S. Senate election in Washington State, involving Slade Gorton and Maria Cantwell, was historically significant due to its extremely narrow margin and the subsequent lengthy recount. The race was decided by just over 2,000 votes, making it one of the closest Senate elections in modern American history and drawing national attention to the intricacies of electoral recounts.

Is Slade Gorton the last Republican U.S. Senator from Washington State?

As of 2022, yes, Slade Gorton holds the distinction of being the last Republican to have served as a U.S. Senator from Washington State from either of the state's two Senate seats. Since his departure in 2001, both of Washington's Senate seats have been held by Democrats.