Confirmation of Edwin Meese as Attorney General

The Historic Confirmation of Edwin Meese

On March 15, 1985, the United States Senate confirmed Edwin Meese III as the 75th Attorney General of the United States. This significant political event marked a pivotal moment during President Ronald Reagan's administration, as Meese was a close advisor to Reagan and an important figure in his key policies. The confirmation process was watched closely, reflecting the tensions of the time regarding judicial philosophy and civil rights.

Edwin Meese’s Background

Edwin Meese, born on December 2, 1931, in the small town of Oakland, California, had a notable background in both law and politics. He graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, and earned his law degree from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. Prior to his confirmation, Meese served as a senior advisor to President Reagan and had held various influential positions in California's politics, which positioned him for this crucial role in the federal government.

The Controversies Surrounding His Confirmation

Meese’s confirmation was not without controversy. His political views and statements on justice, alongside his close ties to Reagan, drew sharp criticism from various Senatorial opponents. They voiced concerns over his strong conservative stance on issues such as abortion and civil rights. Meese faced tough questioning from senators concerned about his stance on separation of powers and executive authority, marking the confirmation hearings as one of the most contentious of that era.

The Aftermath of Meese’s Leadership

The confirmation of Edwin Meese set the stage for a series of policies that defined the trajectory of the U.S. Justice Department during the late 1980s. His tenure was characterized by a strong enforcement of drug laws and an aggressive approach to crime, reflecting Reagan’s broader initiative known as the "War on Drugs." However, Meese’s time in office would also face scrutiny and infamy due to allegations of ethical breaches and controversies surrounding his policy decisions.

Key Policies Initiated by Edwin Meese

As Attorney General, Meese implemented several high-profile initiatives, including the establishment of a national drug control strategy and reinforced enforcement of immigration laws. His zealous promotion of law and order policies earned him a controversial reputation, as critics argued that these measures disproportionately impacted minority communities.

Criticism and Legacy of Edwin Meese

Despite his strong professional background, Meese's time as Attorney General was marred by controversy. He was often criticized for his handling of issues such as civil rights and for his support of policies viewed as overly aggressive. His legacy is mixed; while he was a key figure in Reagan’s vision, many view his policies as contributing factors to ongoing debates over justice and civil liberties in America.

Fun Fact

Edwin Meese’s Unexpected Political Roles

Interestingly, prior to his role as Attorney General, Edwin Meese was instrumental in crafting Reagan's policies and was nicknamed "the Professor" for his analytical approach to policy-making and legal interpretations.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Edwin Meese

To further explore the life and impact of Edwin Meese, consider reading "The Reagan Diaries" edited by Douglas Brinkley, which offers insights into his close collaboration with Reagan and the policies of the time. Additionally, "With Honor: Melvin Laird in War, Peace, and Politics" provides context on the political landscape that Meese navigated during his tenure.