Pete McCloskey, a former California Republican congressman known for his pro-environment and anti-war stances, has passed away at the age of 96. McCloskey, a fourth-generation Republican, co-wrote the Endangered Species Act and was a co-founder of Earth Day. He served in Congress for 15 years and even ran for president against Richard Nixon in 1972. Despite facing opposition from party leaders, he remained steadfast in his beliefs and publicly disavowed the GOP in his later years.
In 2006, McCloskey made one last bid for elective office by challenging Richard Pombo in a primary race described as a battle for the soul of the Republican Party. After losing to Pombo, who sought to undo the Endangered Species Act, McCloskey threw his support behind Democrat Jerry McNerney. He expressed his disillusionment with the GOP’s ethics scandals and influence peddling under the George W. Bush administration as reasons for switching parties in 2007 at the age of 79.
Born in Loma Linda, California, McCloskey joined the Marine Corps and served in the Korean War, where he was awarded the Navy Cross, a Silver Star, and two Purple Hearts. After earning a law degree from Stanford University, he founded an environmental law firm before entering public office. He represented the San Mateo County congressional seat in a special election in 1967 and later ran for the Senate but lost to Pete Wilson. McCloskey was known for his thundering presence in Washington and his efforts to challenge the establishment on issues like the Vietnam War and environmental conservation.
McCloskey’s most enduring legacy is his co-authorship of the Endangered Species Act in 1973. The legislation aimed to protect endangered and threatened species and preserve the ecosystems they rely on. He credited the success of the bill to the Earth Day activities that empowered young people and led to the defeat of anti-environment lawmakers in Congress. McCloskey’s commitment to conservation earned him the respect of environmental activists and fellow lawmakers, despite his departure from the GOP and his stance on controversial issues like Israeli influence on American politics.
In his later years, McCloskey continued to stay active in politics by forming the Revolt of the Elders Coalition in 2006. The group of retired Republican congressmen advocated for issues like improving benefits for soldiers, investigating ethics violations, and opposing corrupt practices like those associated with lobbyist Jack Abramoff. McCloskey believed in the importance of making a positive impact on the country, regardless of age. He is survived by his wife, Helen, and four children from his first marriage. Despite his passing, the impact of McCloskey’s contributions to environmental conservation and political integrity will continue to be felt for years to come.
McCloskey’s death marks the end of an era for American politics, as he was a rare figure guided by a sense of justice rather than strict political ideology. His willingness to challenge party leaders and take on controversial issues like the Vietnam War and ethics scandals set him apart from his contemporaries. The legacy of the Endangered Species Act, which he co-wrote, remains a testament to his commitment to protecting wildlife and preserving the environment. McCloskey’s life and career serve as a reminder of the impact that one individual can have on shaping policy and advocating for important causes in the face of political adversity.
