Herbert Harris II

Herbert E. Harris II was an American lawyer and politician who served as a Democratic member of the United States House of Representatives from Virginia's 8th congressional district. His congressional career spanned three terms from 1975 to 1981, during which he represented parts of Fairfax County. Harris's political journey was marked by his legal background and his involvement in local governance prior to his election to Congress.

Early life and career

Herbert Eugene Harris II was born on April 14, 1926, in Kansas City, Missouri. His early education began at St. Francis Xavier Elementary School, where he studied from 1930 to 1939. Following his elementary education, he graduated from Rockhurst High School in Kansas City in 1943. After high school, Harris pursued higher education at Missouri Valley College in Marshall, Missouri, from 1944 to 1945, before transferring to the University of Notre Dame, where he studied from 1945 to 1946.

Harris ultimately earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rockhurst College in 1948. He continued his education at Georgetown University Law School in Washington, D.C., where he received his Juris Doctor degree in 1951. Upon completing his legal education, he was admitted to the bars of Missouri and the District of Columbia in the same year. He began his legal career in Kansas City before relocating to the Washington, D.C., area in 1951.

In addition to his legal practice, Harris was involved in various business ventures. He co-founded Warner & Harris, Inc., an international trade consulting firm, where he served as vice president and general counsel. His professional background in law and business provided him with a foundation for his later political career.

Harris's entry into public service began in local government. He served on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors from 1968 to 1974, where he was involved in addressing local issues and governance. His commitment to regional development was further demonstrated through his role as a member of the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority during the same period. Additionally, he served as vice-chairman of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority from 1970 to 1974, contributing to the planning and implementation of transportation initiatives in the metropolitan area.

House tenure

Herbert E. Harris II was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1974 as a member of the Democratic Party. He successfully defeated the incumbent representative, Stanford E. Parris, marking the beginning of his congressional career. Harris's first term in the House commenced on January 3, 1975, and he was subsequently re-elected to serve in the 95th and 96th Congresses. His tenure in the House lasted until January 3, 1981.

During his time in Congress, Harris was involved in various legislative initiatives and represented the interests of his constituents in Virginia's 8th congressional district. His district included significant portions of Fairfax County, an area that was experiencing considerable growth and development during the 1970s. Harris's focus on local issues and his background in law and transportation likely influenced his approach to congressional responsibilities.

Despite his initial electoral success, Harris faced challenges in his political career. In 1980, he sought re-election for a fourth term but was defeated by Stanford E. Parris, who reclaimed his former seat. Following this defeat, Harris attempted to return to Congress in 1982 but was unsuccessful in his bid, losing by a narrow margin. After leaving Congress, he resumed his legal practice with the firm of Harris & Berg in Washington, D.C.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional tenure, Herbert E. Harris II focused on various legislative issues that were pertinent to his constituents and the broader community. His background in law and local governance informed his approach to policy-making and advocacy in Congress. One of his notable contributions was his role as a proponent for the establishment of the Quantico National Cemetery, a significant project that honored veterans and provided a resting place for those who served in the military.

Harris's legislative priorities likely reflected the needs and concerns of the rapidly growing population in Fairfax County. As a member of Congress, he would have been involved in discussions and decisions related to transportation, infrastructure, and community development, given his previous experience with local transportation authorities. His legal expertise may have also influenced his work on issues related to civil rights, public policy, and governance.

After his congressional career, Harris continued to be active in his community and maintained a presence in the legal field. He lived in Mount Vernon, Virginia, where he remained engaged with local issues until his passing. Herbert E. Harris II died on December 24, 2014, at his home in Fairfax County, Virginia, at the age of 88. He was interred at the Quantico National Cemetery, a testament to his commitment to honoring those who served in the military.

Harris's life and career reflect a blend of legal expertise, public service, and dedication to community development. His contributions to the legislative process and local governance have left a lasting impact on the constituents he represented during his time in the U.S. House of Representatives.