Clinton Presba Anderson

Democrat Senator of New Mexico

  • Senator

    New Mexico

    January 10, 1967 - January 3, 1973

15

Congresses Served

3

House Terms

4

Senate Terms

January 1, 1895 (80 years old)

Birthday

January 1, 1975

Death

  • Served as a U.S. Senator from New Mexico for 24 years, from 1949 to 1973.
  • Held the position of United States Secretary of Agriculture from 1945 to 1948.
  • Represented New Mexico’s at-large congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1941 to 1945.
  • Played a significant role in post-World War II agricultural policy and food distribution.
  • Instrumental in the establishment of the New Mexico Department of Health and various health programs.
  • Chaired the Senate Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences, advocating for the U.S. space program.
  • Sponsored the Wilderness Act, which established protected wilderness areas in the U.S.
  • Known for the Price-Anderson Nuclear Industries Indemnity Act, which addressed liability issues in the nuclear industry.
  • Actively involved in various committees, including those focused on atomic energy and the preservation of Senate records.
  • His nomination of Lewis Strauss as Secretary of Commerce was notably rejected by the Senate, marking a rare failure of a Cabinet appointee’s confirmation.
  • Inducted into the International Space Hall of Fame in 1977, recognizing his contributions to space exploration.
  • Married Henrietta McCartney in 1921 and had two children.