Patrick J. Lucey: A Lasting Legacy

by Dennis L. Dresang

Overview

As Wisconsin governor from 1971 to 1977, Patrick J. Lucey pursued an ambitious progressive agenda, tempered by the concerns of a fiscal conservative and a pragmatic realist. He was known for bridging partisan divides, building coalitions, and keeping politics civil. His legacy, which included merging Wisconsin’s universities into one system and equalizing the funding formula for public schools, continues to impact Wisconsin residents and communities.

Preceding his service as governor, Lucey played a key role in rebuilding the Democratic Party in Wisconsin, returning a state that had been dominated by Republicans to a more moderate two-party system. As party chairman, he built coalitions between World War II veterans, remnants of the defunct Progressive Party, urban socialists, and activists in rural communities throughout the state.

Through exclusive interviews and unprecedented access to archival materials, Dennis L. Dresang shares the story of this pivotal figure in Wisconsin history, from his small-town rural roots to his wide-ranging influence.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780870209369
Publisher:	Wisconsin Historical Society
Publication date:	09/15/2020
Edition description:	1
Pages:	384
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 9.10(h) x 1.30(d)
Age Range:	3 Months to 18 Years

About the Author

Dennis L. Dresang is professor emeritus of public affairs and political science and founding director of the La Follette School of Public Affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His research and scholarly publications have focused on state politics, public personnel management, and community issues.

Table of Contents

Introduction 1

1 The Luceys and Ferryville 11

2 Out and Back 26

3 Politics Calls 40

4 Party Builder 56

5 Lucey Means Business 80

6 Campaigns, Conflicts, and Civility 94

7 The Prelude 119

8 Tragedies and Reflection 152

9 The 1970 Race for Governor 164

10 Launching Progressive Reforms 189

11 Rules of the Game 214

12 Leaving a Legacy 229

13 Progress and Frustration in Mexico 259

14 Running for Veep 276

15 Sunset Years 291

Appendix A Wisconsin State Budget Process, 1973-1975 303

Appendix B Policies Adopted by Governor Patrick J. Lucey and the Wisconsin State Legislature, 1971-1977 305

Notes 311

Acknowledgments 357

Index 360