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Wayne Lyman Morse (October 20, 1900 – July 22, 1974) was an American attorney and United States Senator from Oregon. Morse is well known for opposing the Democratic Party ’s leadership and for his opposition to the Vietnam War on constitutional grounds.
Learn about the life and legacy of Wayne Morse, a U.S. senator who opposed the Vietnam War, defended civil rights and labor rights, and championed the rule of law. Explore his political philosophy, policy work, and memorials on the Wayne Morse Center website.
Born in Verona, Wisconsin, on October 20, 1900, Wayne Lyman Morse grew up in a struggling farming family steeped in the independent beliefs of Midwestern Progressivism. Morse did his undergraduate work in speech and economics at the University of Wisconsin, from which he graduated in 1923.
Wayne L. Morse: A Featured Biography. The fiercely independent Wayne Morse of Oregon, who set a filibuster record in 1953, was first elected to the Senate as a Republican. He broke with that party in 1952, leaving Democrats and Republicans evenly divided in the Senate.
Former Oregon Senator Wayne Morse died on July 22,1974. His admirers knew him as "The Tiger in the Senate." His many enemies, including five presidents, called him a lot worse. Today he is remembered as a gifted lawmaker and principled maverick who thrived on controversy.
Learn about the life and career of Wayne Morse, a maverick senator who broke the filibuster record in 1953 and switched parties twice. Find out how he challenged the Republican Party, the Vietnam War, and his opponents with his wit and courage.
Learn about the life and achievements of Wayne Morse, a maverick U.S. Senator who fought for civil rights, labor rights, and constitutional principles. Find out how he defected from the Republican Party and ran against John F. Kennedy in 1960.
