Lloyd Bentsen has died at the age of 85. Being a consumer of political minutia, I was the only younger history teacher in the lounge who recognized the name and gave a nostalgic “aw shucks” at the report. I had put him into the “I already thought he died” pile with George McGovern, who I hear may still be kicking.
Distinguished career, but old-school liberal. He is hailed for two major things:
- Using that “I knew Jack Kennedy” line in the 1988 Veep debate.
- Contributing to the largest tax increase in American history in Bill Cliinton’s 1993 “deficit reduction” package.
But the Texas Senator who received one West Virginian Electoral Vote in 1988 (Bush- 426; Dukakis- 111; Bentsen- 1) gets this moment when we all can reflect on his career to public service.
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A good man. Usually disagreed with him but a good man. May he rest in peace.