Last week I profiled John Garamendi, one of the most prominent Basque-American politicians we have ever had in the United States. However, the distinction for the most prominent politician goes to Paul Laxalt. Governor and US Senator, he was also a close friend of Ronald Reagan and played an important role in Reagan’s presidential campaigns. The brother of writer Robert Laxalt, Paul made his own mark on history. It is interesting to note how both Paul and John were and are known for their work across the aisle and their ability to work with the other party.

- Paul Dominique Laxalt was born on August 2, 1922, in Reno, Nevada. His parents, Dominique Laxalt and Theresa Laxalt (nee Alpetche), were both from the Basque Country. Dominique was from Zuberoa and Theresa from Nafarroa Beherea. Dominique had immigrated in 1904 to the United States, becoming a sheepherder while Theresa, arriving in 1920, ultimately managed the French Hotel in Carson City, Nevada.
- In high school, Paul was part of the state championship basketball team. After he graduated and World War II started, he joined the army (like many in his family), where he was a medic and was deployed to the Philippines. When he returned, he got his law degree and began a career as a lawyer.
- Paul entered politics in 1950, running for and winning the position of District Attorney of Ormsby County in Nevada. This was the start of a long career. He soon ran for and won the position of Lieutenant Governor in 1963. He ran for the United States Senate in 1964, losing by 48 votes. Only a few years later, he ran for Governor and won. He only served one term but helped established Nevada’s first community colleges and medical school.
- After serving as Governor, Paul took a break and opened a hotel. However, in 1974 he was recruited to run for the Senate again. This time he won. Serving two terms, he was respected by both sides of the aisle for being a “straight shooter” – he was able to work with both Republicans and Democrats.
- As Governor, he became close friends with the Governor of neighboring California, Ronald Reagan. He was almost chosen as Reagan’s running mate for the White House, but George HW Bush was chosen instead. His relationship with Reagan meant that an unusually large number of Nevadans made their way into DC politics. Reagan relied on Laxalt for his expertise in multiple occasions. He served as Reagan’s National Chairman for more than one campaign.
- He tried one unsuccessful run for the presidency before retiring from politics and returning to private practice, though he continued to serve the government on various panels. He died on August 6, 2018.
A full list of all of Buber’s Basque Facts of the Week can be found in the Archive.
Primary sources: Paul Laxalt, Wikipedia
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Thanks so much for this history!
Eskerrik asko!!!
Ez horregatik 🙂