Conservative Senator James Buckley, Brother of Late Writer William F. Buckley, Passes Away at the Age of 100
On March 9, 2022, the political world mourned the loss of James L. Buckley, a prominent conservative figure and former United States Senator. At the remarkable age of 100, Buckley’s passing marked the end of an era for American politics and conservatism. As the older brother of renowned writer William F. Buckley Jr., James Buckley left an indelible mark on the nation through his legislative career and unwavering commitment to conservative principles.
Born on March 9, 1923, in New York City, James Lane Buckley was raised in a family that valued intellectual pursuits and public service. His father, William F. Buckley Sr., was a successful oil executive, and his mother, Aloise Steiner Buckley, was a socialite and philanthropist. James Buckley’s younger brother, William F. Buckley Jr., would go on to become one of the most influential conservative intellectuals of the 20th century.
After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, James Buckley attended Yale University, following in his brother’s footsteps. He graduated in 1943 and then pursued a law degree from Yale Law School, which he completed in 1949. Buckley’s legal education laid the foundation for his future career in public service.
In 1970, James Buckley made history by becoming the first conservative candidate to win a U.S. Senate seat in New York since Reconstruction. Running on the Conservative Party ticket, he defeated both the Republican and Democratic candidates, showcasing his ability to appeal to a broad range of voters. During his single term in the Senate from 1971 to 1977, Buckley established himself as a staunch defender of conservative principles.
Buckley’s tenure in the Senate was marked by his unwavering commitment to limited government, individual liberty, and free-market capitalism. He was a vocal opponent of excessive government regulation and taxation, advocating for policies that promoted economic growth and personal freedom. Buckley also championed conservative social values, opposing abortion rights and advocating for traditional family values.
One of Buckley’s most significant legislative achievements was his role in the creation of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. As a member of the Judiciary Committee, he played a pivotal role in shaping the court’s structure and jurisdiction. This court has since become a vital institution in the federal judiciary, handling cases related to patents, trademarks, international trade, and government contracts.
After leaving the Senate, Buckley continued to contribute to public discourse through writing and academia. He authored several books on conservative principles and constitutional law, sharing his insights and wisdom with future generations. Buckley also served as a visiting professor at various universities, including New York University School of Law and Georgetown University Law Center.
Throughout his life, James Buckley remained a steadfast advocate for conservative values and a principled leader in American politics. His passing at the age of 100 marks the end of an era for American conservatism, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure. Buckley’s contributions to the conservative movement and his dedication to public service serve as an inspiration for future generations of conservatives.
In a statement following Buckley’s passing, conservative leaders and politicians paid tribute to his remarkable life and legacy. They praised his intellect, integrity, and unwavering commitment to conservative principles. Buckley’s passing serves as a reminder of the importance of principled leadership and the lasting impact one individual can have on shaping the course of a nation.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the memory of James Buckley will remain a guiding light for conservatives seeking to uphold the values he held dear. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to fight for limited government, individual liberty, and the preservation of conservative principles. James Buckley’s contributions to American politics will forever be remembered, and his passing marks the end of an era for conservatism in the United States.
