Third In Line

Growing up in Oklahoma, I remember how very proud the state was of native son Carl Albert. Schools and other places were named in his honor.

Albert grew up in McAlester, located in the southeastern part of the state. McAlester is one of those great towns that is small enough that it feels good, but big enough that not everyone knows you name. Just in case you feel like acting up that day.

A Rhodes Scholar and graduate of not my alma mater (he was a Sooner), he was a lawyer and in 1947 was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. His fellow Democrats elected him Speaker of the House in 1971. He held that post until 1977 when he left the U.S. House.

A short guy, 5 foot 4 inches, with a heavy Oklahoma, southern country accent. But a tough, intelligent guy. He was known as "The Little Giant from Little Dixie." That was meant as a compliment during his time.

Generally speaking, Oklahoma loved him and was very proud of the fact that he twice was next in line for the U.S. Presidency -- when Vice President Agnew resigned (before Gerald Ford became vice president) and after President Nixon resigned. Because he was not of the same party as the current president, he said if the situation occurred he would only serve as "acting president" until both houses selected a new vice president.

He died February 4, 2000 and is buried in McAlester.

Love 'er or hate 'er, Nancy Pelosi of California is now the Speaker of the House. It's an historical day in U.S. politics. Exciting in its own way too. For their sake and ours, I hope this congress is able to accomplish much that impacts our lives in positive ways.