Author: William R. Fernekes in Conversation with Ingrid Reed

The author and educator discusses his new book, "Clifford Case and the Challenge of Liberal Republicanism," with policy analyst Ingrid Reed.

"Clifford Case and the Challenge of Liberal Republicanism," examines the life and career of U.S. Senator Clifford Case, who served from 1955-1979.

About the book (from the publisher)

Clifford P. Case was an exemplary “liberal Republican” during his 33 years in Congress, including four terms in the U.S. Senate. A strong advocate of civil and human rights, environmental protection, high ethical standards for public officials, and U.S. global leadership, Case was a highly respected member of the GOP from 1945-1979. Even so, GOP conservatives repeatedly sought to oust Case, finally succeeding as the Republican party moved inexorably to the right. This book tells Case’s life story, his ascendancy in GOP politics, his achievements and disappointments in Congress, and his unexpected loss in the 1978 NJ GOP primary to Reagan protégé Jeffrey Bell. Case emerges as a courageous politician of principle who valued country over party and regularly formed coalitions with Democrats concerning major foreign and domestic policy issues: ending the Vietnam War, passing landmark civil rights legislation, and reasserting the Senate’s role in foreign policy oversight. The biography also analyzes the gradual decline of liberal Republican influence in the GOP, culminating in Ronald Reagan’s 1980 election and the triumph of movement conservatism. For readers who decry America’s political polarization, Case’s career demonstrates that electoral and legislative achievements need not rely on appeals to political extremes.

About the Author

William R. Fernekes has authored numerous articles, essays and book reviews. His additional books are "Children's Rights: A Reference Handbook" (with Beverly C. Edmonds), "The Oryx Holocaust Sourcebook" and "The Human Rights Imperative in Teacher Education." co-edited with Gloria T. Alter.

Presented with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this programming do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

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