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The Life and Times of Morris Udall: The Uncrowned Wit of American Politics

Rex Hayes

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Morris Udall was a true American original. A politician, environmentalist, and author, he served in the U.S. House of Representatives for 30 years, representing the state of Arizona. Udall was known for his sharp wit, his unwavering principles, and his passionate advocacy for the environment.

Udall was born in 1922 in St. Johns, Arizona. His father, Levi Udall, was a Mormon pioneer who served as a state legislator and a U.S. congressman. Morris Udall followed in his father's footsteps, entering politics after serving in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Mo: The Life and Times of Morris K. Udall

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Udall was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1961. He quickly became known for his sharp wit and his ability to see the humor in even the most serious situations. Udall once said, "Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly, and applying the wrong remedies." He also said, "A politician is someone who, when he sees a bandwagon, jumps on it before it starts to roll." Udall, a staunch liberal, was also a strong advocate for environmental protection. He was a leading sponsor of the Clean Air Act of 1970 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973. He also worked to protect public lands in Arizona, including the Grand Canyon.

In 1976, Udall ran for President of the United States. He won the Democratic primary in Wisconsin, but lost the nomination to Jimmy Carter. Udall continued to serve in the House of Representatives until 1991, when he retired due to Parkinson's disease. He died in 1998 at the age of 76.

Morris Udall was a unique and unforgettable figure in American politics. He was a man of wit, principle, and passion. He left a lasting legacy of environmental protection and public service.

Udall's Wit

Morris Udall was known for his sharp wit and his ability to see the humor in even the most serious situations. He once said, "I've learned that if you don't take life too seriously, it takes you seriously." Udall's wit was often self-deprecating. He once said, "I'm not a very good politician. I'm just a good guy who can talk." Udall's wit was also used to poke fun at his opponents. He once said, "Congress is the only place where you can say something dumb and have it repeated all over the country." Udall's wit was a powerful tool that he used to make people laugh, to make them think, and to make them see the absurdity of politics.

Udall's Principles

Morris Udall was a man of principle. He believed in the power of government to make a difference in people's lives. He believed in protecting the environment, in promoting civil rights, and in providing economic opportunity for all Americans. Udall's principles were often unpopular, but he never wavered in his commitment to them. He once said, "I'd rather be right than President." Udall's principles guided his actions throughout his career in public service.

Udall's Legacy

Morris Udall left a lasting legacy of environmental protection and public service. He was a leading sponsor of the Clean Air Act of 1970 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973. He also worked to protect public lands in Arizona, including the Grand Canyon. Udall's legacy also includes his wit and his commitment to principle. He was a man who made people laugh, made them think, and made them see the absurdity of politics. Udall was a true American original, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Morris Udall Speaking At A Podium Mo: The Life And Times Of Morris K Udall