George Blanchard

George Blanchard was an American lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Wisconsin's 1st congressional district during the 73rd Congress from 1933 to 1935. A member of the Republican Party, Blanchard's political career spanned several decades, including significant roles in state government prior to his election to Congress. He was known for his involvement in local and state politics, as well as his alignment with the conservative faction of the Republican Party.

Early life and career

George W. Blanchard was born on January 26, 1884, in Colby, Wisconsin. He received his early education in the public schools of the area and later pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin. He graduated from the College of Letters and Science in 1906 and subsequently attended the University of Wisconsin Law School, earning his law degree in 1910. During his time at university, he was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.

After completing his education, Blanchard began his legal career in Edgerton, Wisconsin, where he moved shortly after being admitted to the bar in 1910. His first foray into public office came in 1912 when he was elected city attorney of Edgerton. In 1914, he was appointed to the income tax assessment board for Rock County. Blanchard formed a partnership in 1913 with W. G. Atwell, focusing on law and real estate, and later expanded this venture into a real estate investment company known as the Edgerton Investment Co.

In January 1917, Blanchard was appointed as executive clerk to Governor Emanuel L. Philipp during the governor's second term. In this capacity, he managed the outer executive office and assisted in drafting legislation. Blanchard also served as city clerk of Edgerton starting in 1920, while continuing his role as city attorney.

Blanchard's political involvement deepened in the early 1920s. In 1921, he was elected president of the Progressive Republican Club of Rock County, actively supporting progressive Republican candidates in various elections. His political career advanced when he ran for the Wisconsin State Assembly in 1924, successfully defeating his opponent in the Republican primary and subsequently winning the general election against a Democratic candidate.

During his term in the Assembly, Blanchard became embroiled in a significant intra-party conflict regarding the election of a speaker. Aligning himself with a faction of conservatives, he opposed the progressive establishment's candidate. Despite this, he was appointed to important committees, including those on rules and judiciary, and played a prominent role in legislative debates. Following his Assembly term, he was elected to the Wisconsin Senate in 1926, representing the 15th district, which encompassed all of Rock County. He was re-elected in 1930 without facing any opposition.

As a senator, Blanchard emerged as a leader of the conservative faction, maintaining a close relationship with Governor Fred R. Zimmerman. He was rumored to be a potential candidate for the U.S. Senate in 1928 but ultimately did not pursue this opportunity.

House tenure

Blanchard's congressional career began with a bid for the U.S. House of Representatives in a special election in 1931 to fill the vacancy left by the death of long-serving Representative Henry Allen Cooper. This election was notable for its competitive nature, as Blanchard faced several candidates, including state representative Edward F. Hilker and attorney Thomas Ryum Amlie. In this primary, Blanchard finished second, falling short of the progressive candidate Amlie by a margin of approximately 1,300 votes.

In the spring of 1932, Blanchard garnered support from conservative factions in southeast Wisconsin for another attempt at the congressional seat. Despite this backing, his previous support for prohibition was viewed as a potential disadvantage, as many constituents favored a more liberal approach to the law. The political landscape shifted further when the Wisconsin Legislature redistricted, which would impact the dynamics of the upcoming election.

Blanchard successfully secured the Republican nomination for Wisconsin's 1st congressional district and was elected to the House in the general election. He served during the 73rd Congress from 1933 to 1935. His tenure in the House was marked by the challenges of the Great Depression, and he worked on various issues pertinent to his constituents and the nation.

Blanchard's congressional term concluded on January 3, 1935, after which he did not seek re-election. His time in the House was characterized by his alignment with the conservative wing of the Republican Party, reflecting the political currents of the era.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the U.S. House of Representatives, Blanchard was involved in legislative matters that were significant to his constituents and the broader political landscape of the time. Although specific details regarding the bills he sponsored or supported are not available, it can be inferred that his legislative focus aligned with the conservative principles he championed throughout his political career.

Blanchard's background as a lawyer and his experience in state government likely informed his approach to legislation. His prior roles in the Wisconsin Senate and Assembly would have provided him with a solid understanding of legislative processes and the needs of his district. He was known for his active participation in debates and committee work during his time in the state legislature, which would have continued during his congressional tenure.

After leaving Congress, Blanchard remained engaged in his community and continued to influence local politics through his family, notably his son David Blanchard, who also served in the Wisconsin State Assembly and held the position of speaker during the 1961 term. George Blanchard passed away on October 2, 1964, leaving behind a legacy of public service in Wisconsin.