George J. Mitchell

George John Mitchell Jr. (born August 20, 1933) is an American lawyer, businessman, author, and politician. A member of the Democratic Party, he served as a United States Senator from Maine from 1980 to 1995 and was Senate Majority Leader from 1989 to 1995.

Early Life and Education

George Mitchell was born in Waterville, Maine, to a Lebanese immigrant mother and an Irish-American father. He attended Waterville High School before earning his undergraduate degree from Bowdoin College and later his law degree from Georgetown University Law Center.

Political Career

Mitchell was appointed to the U.S. Senate in 1980 to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Edmund S. Muskie, who became Secretary of State. He won a full term in 1982 and was re-elected in 1988. During his time in the Senate, Mitchell was noted for his leadership on health care and environmental issues, including his work on the Clean Air Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

In 1989, he became the Senate Majority Leader, a position he held until his retirement from the Senate in 1995. As Majority Leader, Mitchell was instrumental in the passage of several significant legislative measures.

Post-Senate Career

After retiring from the Senate, Mitchell rejected an offer to be nominated for the United States Supreme Court, choosing instead to focus on international issues. He served as a special advisor to President Bill Clinton on Ireland, and played a pivotal role in the negotiations for the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, which helped bring an end to the conflict in Northern Ireland.

In 2009, President Barack Obama appointed Mitchell as the United States Special Envoy for Middle East Peace, a position he held until 2011. In this role, he attempted to facilitate negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians.

Legacy and Honors

Mitchell has received numerous awards and honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Liberty Medal. He has also been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in Northern Ireland.

Personal Life

Mitchell has authored several books on law and politics. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.

See Also

• List of United States Senators from Maine
• Democratic Party (United States) leaders of the United States Senate
• Special Envoy for Middle East Peace