The Windmill Chaser

Robert L.“Bob” Livingston Jr. was born to an American middle-class family. His father left when he was very young, but Livingston and his sister were raised by a strong mother who gave them both a good education and a vigorous work ethic. From an early age, he was blessed with a sense of humor that would carry him through good times and bad.

After a successful career as a prosecutor in New Orleans, Livingston was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1977. In addition to overseeing the only balanced budget in recent memory, Livingston, as Speaker-elect, oversaw the House proceedings that led to the impeachment of President Bill Clinton in 1998. In his memorable last speech to Congress, he maintained that Clinton had inflicted irreparable damage on the country by lying under oath. Having been threatened with the exposure of his own personal indiscretions, Livingston famously shocked the country and stunned his colleagues and constituents by abruptly resigning his seat in Congress, while challenging President Clinton to resign as well.

The story of Bob Livingston is an American story. He began with little, worked hard, and made a lasting impact on American politics. The story of his successes and his failures is compelling and instructive. He tasted fame and fortune. He learned from his mistakes and survived. He found redemption in a successful and vibrant career and in the love of his children and wonderful wife of fifty-two years. Today, he is a happy man.