Jack Kemp, American football player and politician, 9th United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (b. 1935)

Jack French Kemp, born on July 13, 1935, and passing away on May 2, 2009, led a truly multifaceted American life, leaving an indelible mark across two distinct and demanding arenas: professional gridiron football and national politics. Renowned first as an exceptional quarterback and later as a prominent Republican statesman from New York, Kemp’s journey from the sports field to the highest echelons of government was both remarkable and influential, embodying a unique blend of athleticism, intellectual curiosity, and deeply held convictions.

From Gridiron Star to Champion of Players

Before his political career took flight, Jack Kemp was a celebrated professional quarterback for an impressive thirteen years. While he had brief stints in the established National Football League (NFL) and the Canadian Football League (CFL), it was in the nascent and exciting American Football League (AFL) that Kemp truly became a star. He was instrumental in shaping the identity of this challenger league, which would eventually merge with the NFL, setting new standards for passing offenses. Kemp showcased his leadership and skill as captain for two significant teams: the San Diego Chargers and, most notably, the Buffalo Bills. His talents culminated in 1965 when he earned the prestigious AFL Most Valuable Player award, brilliantly guiding the Bills to their second consecutive league championship. Demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the AFL, he played in the league for all ten years of its existence, consistently performing at an elite level. His record includes an astonishing seven AFL All-Star game appearances and participation in five championship games, where he accumulated numerous career passing records that cemented his legacy as one of the league's all-time greats. Beyond his on-field prowess, Kemp also played a crucial off-field role, co-founding the AFL Players Association – a pioneering effort to protect and advocate for player rights – and serving five terms as its president. This early experience in collective bargaining and leadership would prove invaluable in his later political life. During the initial phase of his professional football journey, he also dutifully served his country in the United States Army Reserve.

A Formidable Voice in American Politics

Jack Kemp transitioned from sports hero to a serious political contender, bringing his competitive spirit and policy insights to the Republican Party. Representing New York, particularly a district in Western New York, he served nine distinguished terms in the United States House of Representatives, from 1971 to 1989. During his time in Congress, he emerged as a leading voice on economic policy, captivating many with his articulate arguments. Following his extensive congressional service, Kemp took on a significant executive role, serving as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in President George H. W. Bush's administration from 1989 to 1993. In this capacity, he championed urban revitalization and economic opportunity in underserved communities, a mission he pursued with characteristic vigor.

Presidential Aspirations and Vice Presidential Nomination

Kemp’s ambition extended to the highest office, as he actively contended for the Republican presidential nomination in the 1988 primaries. Although ultimately unsuccessful, his campaign was notable for its focus on supply-side economics and urban policy, establishing him as a key intellectual force within the party. Eight years later, in the 1996 election, he was chosen as the Republican Party's vice presidential nominee, running alongside presidential candidate Bob Dole. Their ticket faced the formidable challenge of unseating incumbent President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore, ultimately losing in a hard-fought contest.

Architect of Supply-Side Economics and Reaganomics

Jack Kemp was perhaps most profoundly known for his unwavering commitment to a specific brand of economic conservatism, advocating vehemently for low taxes and supply-side policies. This economic philosophy posited that reducing taxes, particularly on income and capital gains, would incentivize production, investment, and job creation, thereby stimulating overall economic growth. He was a vocal proponent of both the "Chicago school" of economic thought and, crucially, supply-side economics, becoming a foundational influence upon what would become known as the "Reagan agenda." Indeed, Kemp is widely credited as the principal architect of the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981, a landmark piece of legislation famously known as the Kemp–Roth tax cut. This act drastically reduced marginal income tax rates, representing a significant shift in American economic policy. While firmly conservative on economic matters and staunchly opposed to abortion, Kemp also demonstrated a more libertarian streak in certain social areas, particularly advocating for comprehensive immigration reform, showcasing a nuanced and sometimes unexpected range of political positions that transcended simple ideological labels.

Continued Advocacy and Lasting Impact

Even after concluding his formal political office, Jack Kemp remained a vibrant and influential figure, dedicated to public discourse and policy advocacy. He continued to serve actively as a political commentator and advocate, lending his expertise and voice to various national conversations. His engagement extended to the corporate world and non-profit sector, where he served on numerous boards, sharing his vision and experience. Kemp was also a prolific author, co-authoring and editing several books that explored his economic and political philosophies, further solidifying his intellectual contributions. His passion for American football never waned; he tirelessly promoted the sport and became a passionate advocate for the welfare and recognition of retired professional football players, ensuring their contributions were remembered and supported. His exceptional life of service and impact was posthumously recognized in 2009 when President Barack Obama awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, a testament to his profound and lasting influence across sports, policy, and public life.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jack Kemp

Who was Jack French Kemp?

Jack French Kemp was a distinguished American figure who achieved prominence as both a professional gridiron football player, primarily as a quarterback in the American Football League (AFL), and a highly influential Republican politician from New York. He is remembered for his unique transition from sports hero to a leading voice in conservative economics and national policy.

What was Jack Kemp's significance in professional football?

Kemp was a star quarterback in the American Football League (AFL) for 10 years, serving as captain for the San Diego Chargers and Buffalo Bills. He led the Bills to two consecutive championships, earned the AFL MVP award in 1965, and set many league passing records. Crucially, he also co-founded and served as president for five terms of the AFL Players Association, advocating for player rights.

What were Jack Kemp's major political roles?

Kemp served nine terms in the U.S. House of Representatives for New York from 1971 to 1989. He then became the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under President George H. W. Bush from 1989 to 1993. In 1996, he was the Republican Party's vice presidential nominee, running with Bob Dole.

What economic policies did Jack Kemp champion?

Jack Kemp was a fervent advocate for supply-side economics, emphasizing low taxes and reduced government spending to stimulate economic growth. He was a major intellectual influence behind the "Reagan agenda" and is widely recognized as the architect of the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981, commonly known as the Kemp–Roth tax cut.

Did Jack Kemp ever run for President?

Yes, Jack Kemp sought the Republican presidential nomination in the 1988 primaries. While his campaign did not secure the nomination, it significantly elevated his profile as a leading conservative intellectual and policy advocate within the party.

What is the Kemp–Roth tax cut?

The Kemp–Roth tax cut refers to the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981, a landmark piece of legislation largely designed by Jack Kemp. It significantly reduced marginal income tax rates across the board, based on the principles of supply-side economics, with the goal of boosting economic activity and investment.