Walter Mondale-a name that reverberates with overtones of integrity and progressive politics-emerges as a colossus in the annals of American political history. He served as Vice President to Jimmy Carter from 1977 to 1981 and reconstituted the paradigm of the Vice Presidency to provide ways into public life for the next generation. Aside from the tenure in office, Mondale’s reach further stretched into civil rights, education reform, and diplomacy. To many, he was that man who dared take on Ronald Reagan in the presidential election of 1984, but scores of stories abound about Mondale’s legacy that are less told.
Redefining the Vice Presidency
Before Walter Mondale, the vice presidency was little more than an honorary post where one did little but wait for the presidency and didn’t really participate in the making of policy. That changed with Mondale as an active partner with President Jimmy Carter-in fact, for the first time, he had an office in the West Wing, symbolic of his crucial position in the pecking order of the administration. He was confident and an adviser to the President, attending high-level meetings and giving strategic counsel on everything from foreign policy to economic reform.
As such, Mondale’s Vice Presidency set a new model with Carter that put the Vice Presidency squarely in the hub of the executive branch and has been followed by nearly every administration since, making him somewhat of a role model for vice presidents to follow.
Champion of Civil Rights
High points of Mondale’s time in office were many; on civil rights, for example, his was a full voice that was seldom equivocal. From his years in the Senate-from 1964 until 1976-Mondale had been an important cog in the wheel moving much significant legislation, including the 1968 Fair Housing Act. Above all, Mondale really took to heart his notion of the government’s moral duty to make right the inequities of society and to champion policies furthering social justice.
He was further very vocal for the rights of women and minorities. He always supported the movement of Equal Rights Amendment since its inception and was concerned about the inclusion of voices amongst underrepresented segments in any government. Hence, such absolute commitment for equality brings great respect among such civil rights crusaders like him and other activists.
A Presidential Aspirant Like No Other
When Walter Mondale accepted the Democratic nomination back in 1984, he did something no major party candidate had ever done: he named a woman, Geraldine Ferraro, his vice-presidential running mate. It was a daring political move because an age-old barrier had been broken-open, it was, to an inch more with the opening to increasing gender diversity within the spectrum of American politicians. Although Mondale would lose in a rout to Ronald Reagan, his candidature marked an inflection point in American history.
Candor and openness characterized Mondale’s campaign-he told the electorate that he was going to raise the nation’s taxes because of the rocketing budget deficit-which were in sharp contrast to Reagan’s rosy, supply-side economics. This probably was election-ending and secured for him accolades as a political leader who genuinely put principles first, above even politics.
Diplomatic Contributions
After being elected to office, Mondale continued serving the country through diplomatic posts. He served under President Bill Clinton as the U.S. Ambassador to Japan from 1993 until 1996. During this time, he tried to work out better relations between the United States and Japan on trade issues and on diplomatic cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.
With diplomatic acumen and maturity of international relations experience, Mondale became an efficient envoy in bridging relationships among nations. Their working together helped to result in much stabler, more cooperative relations between the two leading economies of the world.
Legacy of Integrity
Walter Mondale had a life of integrity, courage, and service. At every juncture in an otherwise remarkable life of public service, he never, ever lost sight of what was more important, even when political expediency might have argued for another course. He believed in the power of government to improve people’s lives, and every day he worked to make that belief real.
In an age of political cynicism that often fills the public airwaves, Mondale’s life is a reminder that politics can be a noble profession. It’s a reminder to commitment in public service-by standing firm with what was right, not by what was easy.
Conclusion: Remembering a Trailblazer
But even though he was never a President himself, Walter Mondale is indelibly stamped into American politics. He redefined the role of Vice President, fought for civil rights, and further opened paths to diverse leadership. Strong in his decisions and firm in principles, he continues to inspire new cadres of leadership.
The lifetime contribution by Mondale’s life and career can only be looked back upon by a fraction. He was a trailblazer, a statesman, and most importantly, a man of great integrity. It is now for his legacy to move into the future and light the path as to how much valor, candor, and devotion can take mankind toward a finer tomorrow.
