William Proxmire

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William Proxmire

U.S.A.

Party Democrat
Latest Campaign U.S.A. Senate
Date of Birth November 11, 1915
Date of Death Dec. 15, 2005 (Age: 90)
Overall Community Sentiment: Neutral

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Overview
Community
Analysis
Personal Background

William Proxmire holds a solid educational background, having graduated from The Hill School, Yale University, and Harvard Business School, and later earned a Master of Public Administration from Harvard. He served in the United States Army during World War II, rising to first lieutenant in Military Intelligence. Proxmire began his career in public service by being elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly, later winning a special election to the U.S. Senate. His professional expertise includes a focus on campaign finance reform and personal fitness, evidenced by his published work on the subject and his public commitment to physical health.

Political Ideas

William Proxmire's political identity is marked by an unusual blend of fiscal conservatism and progressive ethics. He championed campaign finance reform by self-funding his campaigns and eschewing contributions, reflecting a principled stance against corruption. Proxmire's military background and dedication to personal fitness, including a pioneering hair transplant, underscore a commitment to public service and personal discipline. His refusal to honor Joseph McCarthy upon taking his Senate seat reveals a calculated defiance of political norms.

Campaigns
1970: U.S.A. Senate
ELECTED

Election History

U.S.A. Senator from Wisconsin

948,445 votes (70.83%)

Win
1964: U.S.A. Senate
ELECTED

Election History

U.S.A. Senator from Wisconsin

892,013 votes (53.30%)

Win
1958: U.S.A. Senate
ELECTED

Election History

U.S.A. Senator from Wisconsin

682,440 votes (57.13%)

Win
1956: Wisconsin State Governor

Election History

1956 Wisconsin gubernatorial election

749,421 votes (48.11%)

Loss

Winner: Vernon Wallace Thomson

1954: Wisconsin State Governor

Election History

1954 Wisconsin gubernatorial election

560,747 votes (48.40%)

Loss

Winner: Walter J. Kohler Jr.

Wisconsin Governor 1954, Democrat Primary

141,548 votes (62.43%)

Win
1952: Wisconsin State Governor

Election History

1952 Wisconsin gubernatorial election

601,844 votes (37.27%)

Loss

Winner: Walter J. Kohler Jr.

Wisconsin Governor 1952, Democrat Primary

178,133 votes (100.00%)

Win