Robert Price

Robert D. Price was an American politician affiliated with the Republican Party, who served as a U.S. Representative for Texas's 13th congressional district from 1967 to 1975. His political career spanned over a decade, during which he was involved in significant legislative activities and served on various committees. Following his tenure in the House, Price continued his political involvement in Texas, serving in the Texas Senate from 1978 to 1981.

Early life and career

Robert Dale Price was born on September 7, 1927, in Reading, Kansas. He grew up in the local community and received his education in the public schools of Reading. Following his high school education, Price pursued higher education at Oklahoma State University–Stillwater, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in animal husbandry in 1951. This academic background laid the foundation for his later endeavors in agriculture and ranching.

In 1951, shortly after completing his degree, Price enlisted in the United States Air Force. His military service took place during the Korean War, where he flew a total of twenty-seven combat missions. Price's contributions during the conflict were recognized with the awarding of an Air Medal, reflecting his commitment and bravery. After his honorable discharge from the Air Force in 1955, he returned to Texas, where he began operating a ranch, furthering his connection to the agricultural community.

Price's political career began to take shape in the 1960s. He became actively involved in the Republican Party, serving as a delegate at the Texas State Republican conventions in 1964, 1966, and 1968. His engagement in party politics culminated in his role as a delegate to the 1968 Republican National Convention held in Miami Beach, Florida. These experiences helped him build a network within the party and positioned him for a future in elected office.

House tenure

Robert Price was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1966, marking the beginning of his congressional career. He officially took office on January 3, 1967, and served a total of four terms, concluding his tenure on January 3, 1975. During his time in Congress, Price was a member of the House Agriculture Committee, which played a crucial role in shaping agricultural policy and legislation. Additionally, he served on subcommittees that focused on NASA oversight and spaceflight, reflecting the growing importance of space exploration during that era.

Throughout his congressional career, Price participated in various legislative activities and made decisions on key issues. Notably, he voted against the Civil Rights Act of 1968, a significant piece of legislation aimed at ending discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. In a notable instance of bipartisan support, Price was the only Republican from Texas's congressional delegation to vote in favor of the Equal Employment Opportunity Act in 1971, which aimed to eliminate employment discrimination.

Despite his efforts and contributions in Congress, Price faced challenges in the political arena. In 1974, he lost his bid for re-election to Democrat Jack Hightower, marking the end of his time in the House of Representatives. This defeat was a significant turning point in his political career, leading him to seek other opportunities in public service.

Legislative focus and committees

During his tenure in the House, Robert Price's legislative focus was primarily centered around agricultural issues, reflecting his background and expertise in animal husbandry and ranching. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, he was involved in discussions and decisions that impacted farmers and the agricultural sector in Texas and beyond. His work on this committee allowed him to advocate for policies that supported agricultural development and addressed the needs of constituents in his district.

In addition to his work on agricultural issues, Price's involvement in subcommittees related to NASA oversight and spaceflight highlighted his engagement with the burgeoning space program of the time. The 1960s and 1970s were pivotal years for space exploration, and Price's participation in these discussions underscored the importance of federal support for scientific advancement and technological innovation.

Price's legislative record reflects a complex engagement with key social issues of the era. His opposition to the Civil Rights Act of 1968 positioned him within a broader context of political and social debates regarding civil rights and equality. Conversely, his support for the Equal Employment Opportunity Act demonstrated a willingness to engage with issues of employment discrimination, indicating a nuanced approach to legislation that affected various demographics.

After his tenure in the House, Price continued his political career by winning a special election for a Texas Senate seat in 1977. He served in the Texas Senate until 1981, further contributing to state-level politics. However, his attempts to return to the U.S. House in subsequent years were unsuccessful, as he made three additional runs for the House in 1988, 1990, and 1992.

Robert D. Price passed away on August 24, 2004, in Pampa, Texas. His contributions to Texas politics and his service in the U.S. House of Representatives are remembered as part of the state's legislative history. He was interred in Fairview Cemetery in Midland, Texas, marking the end of a life dedicated to public service and political engagement.