Charles L. McNary

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Charles Linza McNary (June 12, 1874 – February 25, 1944) was an American politician and judge from the state of Oregon. He served as a U.S. Senator from Oregon from 1917 to 1944 and was the Senate Minority Leader from 1933 to 1944. McNary was a member of the Republican Party and was known for his moderate and progressive views.

Early Life and Education

Charles L. McNary was born on June 12, 1874, in Salem, Oregon. He attended Stanford University but did not graduate. He later studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1898.

Political Career

McNary began his political career as a district attorney for Marion County, Oregon. He was appointed to the Oregon Supreme Court in 1913, where he served until 1915. In 1917, he was appointed to the United States Senate to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Harry Lane. He was subsequently elected to the Senate and served until his death in 1944.

As a senator, McNary was known for his work on agricultural issues and was a co-sponsor of the McNary-Haugen Farm Relief Bill, which aimed to support American farmers by stabilizing prices. Although the bill was vetoed by President Calvin Coolidge, it laid the groundwork for future agricultural policies.

Senate Minority Leader

In 1933, McNary became the Senate Minority Leader, a position he held until his death. As Minority Leader, he worked to build bipartisan support for various legislative initiatives and was known for his ability to negotiate and compromise.

1940 Vice Presidential Campaign

In 1940, McNary was the Republican nominee for Vice President of the United States, running alongside presidential candidate Wendell Willkie. Although they lost the election to the incumbent Franklin D. Roosevelt and his running mate Henry A. Wallace, McNary continued to be an influential figure in the Senate.

Death and Legacy

Charles L. McNary died on February 25, 1944, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is remembered for his contributions to agricultural policy and his leadership in the Senate. The McNary Dam on the Columbia River is named in his honor.

Related Pages

• United States Senate
• Senate Minority Leader
• Republican Party (United States)
• McNary-Haugen Farm Relief Bill
• Wendell Willkie
• Franklin D. Roosevelt
• Henry A. Wallace

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