James Wharton

James Wharton was an American attorney and politician who served as a Republican member of the United States House of Representatives for New York's 28th congressional district from 1951 until 1965. His political career spanned seven terms in Congress, during which he engaged in various legislative activities and participated in significant national discussions, particularly in the realm of civil rights. Born in 1899, Wharton had a diverse professional background that included roles in law and local government before his election to Congress. After leaving office, he returned to his legal practice and ventured into real estate development.

Early life and career

James Ernest Wharton was born on October 4, 1899, in Binghamton, New York, to James H. Wharton and Mae Dibble. His early education took place in the public schools of Richmondville, New York, culminating in his graduation from Richmondville High School. Following his secondary education, Wharton pursued higher education at Albany Law School, where he laid the foundation for his future career in law and politics.

During World War I, Wharton joined the Student Army Training Corps, a program designed to prepare college students for military service. He enlisted as a private in October 1918, shortly before the war concluded with the Armistice on November 11 of that year. After a brief period of service, he was discharged in December 1918. Following his military service, Wharton completed his legal education at Albany Law School, graduating in 1919.

Wharton's professional career began with a position at Travelers Insurance, where he worked from 1920 until 1929. During this time, he gained valuable experience in the business and legal fields. He was admitted to the bar in 1923, marking the beginning of his legal practice, which he formally commenced in 1929. His legal career was complemented by his involvement in local government, where he served as district attorney for Schoharie County, New York, from 1932 until 1941. This role provided him with significant legal and political experience, which would later serve him well in his congressional career.

In 1941, Wharton transitioned to the judiciary, serving as the surrogate, family, and county court judge for Schoharie County until 1951. His tenure in these judicial roles further solidified his reputation as a knowledgeable and experienced legal professional, and it positioned him for a future in national politics.

House tenure

Wharton entered the political arena at the national level when he was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1950. He officially took office on January 3, 1951, representing New York's 28th congressional district. Over the course of his congressional career, he was re-elected multiple times, serving a total of seven terms until his departure from Congress on January 3, 1965.

During his time in the House, Wharton was involved in various legislative initiatives and discussions that shaped the political landscape of the era. His electoral success included a notable victory in 1960 against Democratic challenger Gore Vidal, a prominent writer and political figure. This election underscored Wharton's ability to navigate the political challenges of the time and maintain his position in a competitive electoral environment.

In 1964, however, Wharton's tenure came to an end when he was defeated in his bid for re-election by Democrat Joseph Y. Resnick. This loss marked a significant transition in Wharton's career, as he had to step away from the national political stage after more than a decade of service in the House.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional career, Wharton was known for his involvement in key legislative issues, particularly those related to civil rights. He voted in favor of several landmark pieces of legislation, including the Civil Rights Acts of 1957, 1960, and 1964, which aimed to address racial discrimination and promote equality in various aspects of American life. His support for these measures indicated a commitment to advancing civil rights during a pivotal time in U.S. history.

Additionally, Wharton was a proponent of the 24th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which prohibited the use of poll taxes in federal elections. This amendment was a significant step toward ensuring that voting rights were accessible to all citizens, regardless of their economic status. Wharton's legislative actions reflected a broader commitment to social justice and civil liberties, aligning him with the progressive movements of his time.

After leaving Congress, Wharton returned to his legal practice, where he continued to apply his legal expertise. He also became involved in real estate development, indicating a shift in focus from public service to private enterprise. This transition allowed him to leverage his experience in law and business in new ways.

Wharton passed away on January 19, 1990, in Summit, New York. His contributions to American politics, particularly in the realm of civil rights, remain a part of his legacy. He was interred at Cobleskill Rural Cemetery in Cobleskill, New York, where he is remembered for his service to the community and the nation.

In his personal life, Wharton was first married to Freda Boynton, with whom he had a daughter named Beverly Wharton Radez. After their divorce, he married Marion Turner, who survived him. Wharton's life and career reflect a blend of legal expertise, public service, and a commitment to addressing the pressing social issues of his time, marking him as a notable figure in the political history of New York and the United States.