William Bulger

Senate President William M. Bulger (9519685196) 3

William Bulger (born February 2, 1934) is an American former Democratic politician, lawyer, and public figure from Massachusetts. He served as President of the Massachusetts Senate from 1978 to 1996, making him one of the longest-serving presidents in the history of the Senate. His tenure in the Massachusetts Senate was marked by his influence over state politics and his ability to navigate the complex political landscape of Massachusetts. Bulger later served as the President of the University of Massachusetts system from 1996 to 2003.

Early Life and Education

William Bulger was born in Dorchester, Massachusetts, a neighborhood of Boston, into a large Irish-American family. He was the third of six children. His early life in the working-class neighborhoods of Boston played a significant role in shaping his political views and career. Bulger pursued higher education at Boston College, where he earned his Bachelor's degree, and later at Boston College Law School, where he received his Juris Doctor.

Political Career

Bulger's political career began in the early 1960s when he was elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives. He served there until 1970, when he was elected to the Massachusetts Senate. In 1978, he was elected President of the Senate, a position he held until 1996. During his tenure, Bulger was known for his effective leadership and his ability to work across party lines, despite the often contentious nature of Massachusetts politics.

Presidency of the University of Massachusetts

In 1996, William Bulger was appointed President of the University of Massachusetts system. His tenure was marked by efforts to improve the financial stability of the university system and to expand its academic offerings. However, his presidency was also shadowed by controversy, primarily due to his brother, James "Whitey" Bulger, a notorious fugitive and organized crime figure. William Bulger's alleged connections and refusal to testify about his brother's whereabouts led to political and public pressure, culminating in his resignation in 2003.

Controversies

The most significant controversy surrounding William Bulger concerns his relationship with his brother, James "Whitey" Bulger. Whitey was a prominent figure in Boston's organized crime scene and was on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list for many years. William Bulger's critics accused him of using his political influence to protect his brother, allegations that he consistently denied. In 2003, he was called before a Congressional committee to testify about his communications with his brother, after which he resigned from his position at the University of Massachusetts.

Legacy

William Bulger's legacy is complex. On one hand, he is remembered as a skilled politician and leader who contributed significantly to the governance of Massachusetts and the development of its university system. On the other hand, his career is overshadowed by his association with his brother's criminal activities. Despite the controversies, Bulger remains a notable figure in the political history of Massachusetts.

See Also

• Massachusetts Senate
• University of Massachusetts
• Boston College
• Organized crime in Boston