James M. Jeffords

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James M. Jeffords portrait

James M. Jeffords

U.S.A.

Party Republican
Latest Campaign U.S.A. Senate
Date of Birth May 11, 1934
Date of Death Aug. 18, 2014 (Age: 80)
Overall Community Sentiment: Neutral

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Overview
Community
Analysis
Personal Background

James M. Jeffords graduated from Rutland High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in industrial administration from Yale University. He spent a significant portion of his career in high-finance, managing institutional risk before transitioning to the public sector. Jeffords developed a reputation for bipartisan collaboration, notably when he left the Republican Party to become an independent, caucusing with the Democrats. His career included pivotal moments such as voting with the Democrats on procedural matters while retaining seniority and committee seats. Jeffords retired from the Senate, citing health issues, and passed away due to Alzheimer's disease.

Political Ideas

James M. Jeffords's political career is marked by a blend of ideological agility and regional pragmatism. His unexpected departure from the Republican Party to become an independent reveals a strategic approach to legislative influence. Jeffords's voting record on economic issues often diverges from traditional party lines, such as opposing tax cuts and supporting free-trade agreements. His environmental stances, including opposition to the Flag Desecration Amendment, and social policies, like advocating for LGBT rights, further underscore a nuanced ideological positioning. This combination of policy positions invites deeper inquiry into how Jeffords balances regional interests with broader national issues.

Campaigns
2000: U.S.A. Senate
ELECTED

Election History

U.S.A. Senator from Vermont

189,133 votes (65.56%)

Win
1994: U.S.A. Senate
ELECTED

Election History

U.S.A. Senator from Vermont

106,505 votes (50.32%)

Win
1988: U.S.A. Senate
ELECTED

Election History

U.S.A. Senator from Vermont

163,203 votes (67.97%)

Win
1986: U.S.A. House of Representatives
ELECTED

Election History

Vermont House of Representatives At Large District

89.20% of vote

Win
1984: U.S.A. House of Representatives
ELECTED

Election History

Vermont House of Representatives At-large District

65.50% of vote

Win
1982: U.S.A. House of Representatives
ELECTED

Election History

Vermont House of Representatives At-large District

69.30% of vote

Win
1980: U.S.A. House of Representatives
ELECTED

Election History

Vermont House of Representatives At-large District

75.30% of vote

Win
1978: U.S.A. House of Representatives
ELECTED

Election History

Vermont House of Representatives At Large District

75.30% of vote

Win
1976: U.S.A. House of Representatives
ELECTED

Election History

Vermont House of Representatives At-large District

67.30% of vote

Win
1974: U.S.A. House of Representatives
ELECTED

Election History

Vermont House of Representatives At-large District

52.90% of vote

Win
1972: Vermont State Governor

Election History

Vermont Governor 1972, Republican Primary Results

27,902 votes (45.50%)

Loss

Winner: Luther F. Hackett