The Political Legacy of Ralph Yarborough in Texas
The Rise and Fall of Texas Democratic Icon Ralph Yarborough
In the colorful and tumultuous world of Texas politics, few figures loomed larger than Ralph Yarborough. A champion of liberal Democrats in the state, Yarborough’s career was marked by fierce battles against the conservative establishment, including the likes of Governor Allan Shivers and Senator John Tower.
Born in 1903 in Henderson County, Texas, Yarborough rose to prominence as a lawyer and expert in land use law. His early legal victories against oil companies drilling on public land earned him acclaim and set the stage for his entry into politics.
Yarborough’s political career was marked by defiance against the powerful Democratic establishment in Texas. In the 1950s, he challenged Governor Allan Shivers in a series of heated primary battles, narrowly losing but gaining a reputation as a thorn in the side of the conservative elite.
Despite his clashes with the establishment, Yarborough found success in the 1957 special election to the U.S. Senate, winning with just 38% of the vote. He went on to win reelection in 1958, solidifying his position as a leading progressive voice in Texas.
However, Yarborough’s relationship with fellow Texan Lyndon B. Johnson, who rose to the presidency after the assassination of John F. Kennedy, was fraught with tension. The two men clashed over policy and power, reflecting the broader divisions within the Texas Democratic Party.
Yarborough’s political fortunes took a turn in the 1970s, as he faced a formidable challenge from Lloyd Bentsen, a wealthy and well-connected opponent who portrayed Yarborough as out of touch with Texas values. Yarborough’s defeat in the primary marked the end of his Senate career.
Despite his political setbacks, Yarborough continued to practice law and remained active in Texas politics until his death in 1996 at the age of ninety-two. His legacy as a champion of progressive causes and a thorn in the side of the establishment endures, reminding us of the complex and often contentious history of Texas politics.
