Today, we learn from TN Republican Party Chairman Scott Golden that former TN Congressman and Senator Bill Brock has died.
Brock was the first candidate that I put yard signs and bumper stickers out for when he challenged Jim Sasser in 1982, when I was 16 years old.
Dear Tennessee Republicans –
We are extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Senator Bill Brock of Chattanooga. His legacy of service to our State is as long and mighty as the Tennessee River itself. Stepping away from public life in 1987, many Tennesseans may not realize the impact of Senator Brock’s contribution to the history of Tennessee and the United States.
First elected to Congress in 1962, he served 4 terms as Chattanooga’s Congressman before being elected to the United States Senate in 1970. Following his service in the Senate, Bill Brock was elected Chairman of the Republican National Committee. He led our Party for four years culminating in President Ronald Reagan’s landslide victory in 1980. President Reagan appointed Senator Brock to be the United States Trade Representative from 1981 through 1985, and then again asked him to serve in his cabinet as US Secretary of Labor ending in 1987.
The Tennessee Republican Party had the opportunity to honor Senator Brock with our highest award, The Howard Baker Award, at the 2019 Statesman’s Dinner for his years of dedication and commitment to our State and Party. Our prayers go out to his wife, Sandy, and the entire Brock family, especially our colleague Oscar, who is currently serving the Tennessee Republican Party as our Committeeman for the RNC.
We are truly blessed as a State and Country that men of such character and caliber as Bill Brock dedicated their lives to making our lives better, and his efforts and impact will not be forgotten. Thank you.
Scott Golden
Chairman, Tennessee Republican Party
