Jim Wright

James Claude Wright Jr., born on December 22, 1922, in Fort Worth, Texas, was a prominent American politician and writer. He served as the 48th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1987 to 1989, representing Texas' 12th congressional district as a Democrat for an impressive thirty-four years, from 1955 to 1989.

Wright's political journey began after his service in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, leading him to win a seat in the Texas House of Representatives. He made a significant mark in Congress, distinguishing himself from many of his Southern colleagues by refusing to sign the 1956 Southern Manifesto. His commitment to civil rights was evident as he voted for the Civil Rights Acts of 1960 and 1968, as well as the initial House amendment to the Voting Rights Act of 1965, although he opposed the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

In 1976, Wright was elected House Majority Leader, and he played a crucial role in establishing Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a federal holiday in August 1983. His tenure as Speaker began after Tip O'Neill's retirement, during which he led the House Democratic Caucus to successfully override President Reagan's veto of the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987.

Despite his accomplishments, Wright's career faced challenges, culminating in his resignation from Congress in June 1989 amid an Ethics Committee investigation. Following his departure from politics, he transitioned to academia, becoming a professor at Texas Christian University. Wright passed away in Fort Worth in 2015, leaving behind a legacy of public service and advocacy for civil rights.