Jack Kemp transitioned from a professional football career to a significant political life in Washington, D.C. Born in Los Angeles in 1935, he served nine terms in the United States House of Representatives and later acted as the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development from 1989 to 1993, leaving a mark on American economic policy.
Athletic Beginnings
Kemp attended Fairfax High School and later Occidental College, where he focused on football despite his concerns about his physical size. He played multiple roles, including quarterback, defensive back, and punter. After his college graduation in 1957, he spent time with the Detroit Lions, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, and New York Giants. His professional peak occurred in the American Football League, where he served as a captain for the Los Angeles and San Diego Chargers and the Buffalo Bills. He earned the league's Most Valuable Player award in 1965 after leading the Bills to a championship victory.
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Entering politics, Kemp became a member of the Republican Party and served as a U.S. representative from 1971 to 1989. During his tenure, he held several leadership roles, including Republican Conference Chairman from 1981 to 1987. He was a central proponent of supply-side economics and played a primary role in the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981, often referred to as the Kemp–Roth tax cut. His legislative work emphasized low taxes and economic growth strategies, reflecting his alignment with the Chicago school of thought.
Executive Roles and Campaigns
In 1989, President George H. W. Bush appointed Kemp as the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, a position he held until 1993. Following his time in the cabinet, he remained involved in national politics, contending for the presidential nomination during the 1988 Republican primaries. In 1996, he served as the vice presidential nominee for the Republican Party on a ticket with Bob Dole, which was ultimately unsuccessful against the Democratic incumbents. After retiring from elected office, he participated in corporate and nonprofit boards and continued to write.
Fast facts
- Born: 1935, Los Angeles
- Died: 2009, Bethesda
- Education: Fairfax High School, Occidental College
- Military service: United States Army Reserve, Private
- HUD Secretary term: 1989-1993
- 1996 Vice presidential nominee
- Presidential Medal of Freedom: 2009
- Theodore Roosevelt Award: 1992
Questions readers ask
What was Jack Kemp's primary political focus?
He focused on economic conservatism, advocating for supply-side policies and low taxes.
Which professional football teams did Kemp play for?
He played for the Buffalo Bills, the Los Angeles and San Diego Chargers, and had brief stints with the Detroit Lions, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, and New York Giants.
