Sam Rayburn

Mr. Sam of Texas, the longest-serving Speaker in House history.

Overview

Rayburn represented a northeast Texas district from 1913 until his death in 1961, holding the speakership for 17 years across three stints, 1940 to 1947, 1949 to 1953, and 1955 to 1961. He modernized the Interstate Commerce laws as a young member, guided the New Deal through the House, and mentored three presidents including Lyndon Johnson, famously hosting his Board of Education whiskey hour. Known for integrity in a lobbying era, he refused outside income and died modest. The House office buildings' principal annex carries his name, as does a tradition of plain-spoken leadership.