Pete McCloskey, a prominent California Republican known for his pro-environment and anti-war stance, has passed away at the age of 96. A fourth-generation Republican, McCloskey co-wrote the Endangered Species Act and was a co-founder of Earth Day. He served as a congressman for 15 years and even ran for president against Richard Nixon in 1972, battling party leaders and eventually publicly disavowing the GOP in his later years. In 2007, he switched parties due to disillusionment with the George W. Bush administration.
Born in Loma Linda, California, in 1927, as Paul Norton McCloskey Jr., he served in the Marine Corps during the Korean War, earning several prestigious honors for his bravery. McCloskey went on to earn a law degree from Stanford University before entering public office in 1967. He was known for his progressive views, including befriending Yasser Arafat and criticizing Israeli influence in American politics. McCloskey was a vocal advocate for Nixon’s impeachment and the repeal of the Gulf of Tonkin resolution that allowed the Vietnam War.
McCloskey’s lasting legacy is the Endangered Species Act, which he co-wrote in 1973 after a successful campaign by young activists following Earth Day. The legislation aims to protect endangered species and conserve their ecosystems. Despite losing a Senate race to Pete Wilson in 1982, McCloskey remained active in politics, forming the Revolt of the Elders Coalition in 2006 to advocate for issues such as increasing funding for soldiers’ college education and combating ethics violations.
Throughout his life, McCloskey remained true to his sense of justice, often challenging members of his own party and taking on causes he believed in, regardless of political ideology. He was remembered as a “green, anti-war Republican,” a rare breed in American politics. In his later years, McCloskey continued to fight for causes he believed in, supporting candidates that aligned with his values and working to enact positive change in the country. He is survived by his wife, Helen, whom he married in 1978, and four children from his first marriage.
McCloskey’s impact on environmental legislation and his unwavering commitment to his principles have left a lasting legacy in American politics. A true maverick, he was not afraid to challenge the status quo, even if it meant going against his own party. His contributions to the protection of endangered species and his advocacy for progressive causes have inspired many to follow in his footsteps. Pete McCloskey will be remembered as a dedicated public servant, a champion for justice, and a tireless advocate for a better future.
