Clarke Reed dies at 96, leaving a legacy in the Republican Party

In the southern United States, Clarke Reed, a significant figure in the development of the Republican Party, passed away at his home in Greenville, Mississippi, at the age of 96. Reed's political career began in the 1960s when he became chairman of the Mississippi Republican Party from 1966 to 1976, a period marked by the dominance of the Democratic Party in the region. His leadership was crucial in rallying support for the Republican Party in Mississippi during a challenging political climate. Reed played a pivotal role during the 1976 Republican National Convention, where delegates were evenly split between Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan. His influence led to unifying the Mississippi delegation behind Ford amidst intense competition, a decision that sparked a long-term rivalry with Billy Mounger, a fellow businessman in the Republican Party. Reed's shift of support from Reagan to Ford originated from his belief that Reagan's choice of a more liberal running mate was a misstep. Born in Alliance, Ohio, in 1928, Clarke Reed's family relocated to Caruthersville, Missouri, shortly after his birth. After completing a business degree at the University of Missouri in 1950, he co-founded Reed-Joseph International, which focused on agriculture technology. Besides his business accomplishments, Reed's political mentorship extended to U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, highlighting his lasting impact on Mississippi's political landscape. Reed's passing marks a significant loss for many in Mississippi, as those who worked with him remembered him as a mentor and advisor. His contributions to the Republican Party in Mississippi, particularly his strategies during key political events, shaped the party's direction in the region for years to come.