Huey Long

Huey Long – Life, Politics, and Famous Quotes

Explore the life, political rise, influence, and memorable quotes of Huey P. Long (1893–1935), the populist “Kingfish” of Louisiana whose agenda of wealth redistribution left a lasting mark on American politics.

Introduction

Huey Pierce Long Jr. (August 30, 1893 – September 10, 1935) was an American politician, governor of Louisiana, and U.S. senator, best known for his radical populism, charismatic oratory, and ruthless consolidation of power. Nicknamed “The Kingfish,” he emerged during the Great Depression as a fierce critic of wealth inequality and proposed bold measures under his “Share Our Wealth” program. His complex legacy—part visionary reformer, part authoritarian demagogue—continues to intrigue historians and political thinkers alike.

Early Life and Background

Huey Long was born near Winnfield, Louisiana, in a rural area of northern Louisiana. Although Long often portrayed himself as having been born in a log cabin to extreme poverty, his family was relatively comfortable compared to many in his region. He was one in a large family and displayed early intellectual ambition and oratorical flair.

He studied briefly at several institutions (including the University of Oklahoma and Tulane University law school) before passing the bar in Louisiana in 1915. He started his legal career representing poor plaintiffs and small clients against large corporations, gaining a reputation for advocacy on behalf of the underprivileged.

Long’s antipathy toward corporate monopolies, especially Standard Oil, was seeded early: he once invested in an oil well whose profits were blocked by Standard Oil, fostering his lifelong antagonism toward big business.

Political Career & Major Achievements

Rise in Louisiana Politics

Long’s entry into politics began with election to the Louisiana Railroad Commission (later renamed Public Service Commission), where he prosecuted large utilities and railroads, garnering public attention.

In 1928, he was elected Governor of Louisiana. Once in office, Long moved rapidly and aggressively—firing enemies, consolidating patronage, and pushing through wide-ranging reforms.

His administration undertook a massive public works program: constructing roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, expanding infrastructure, and embarking on adult education and literacy initiatives. Under Long, Louisiana’s state debt soared—but his supporters argued the spending delivered tangible improvements, especially in underserved rural areas.

He centralized power, reshaped the legislature, neutralized opposition, and exercised direct political control over many levers of state government.

From Governor to U.S. Senator & National Ambitions

In 1930, Long campaigned for the U.S. Senate, defeating incumbent Joseph Ransdell in the Democratic primary—a bold move, given Ransdell had strong establishment support. He took office as U.S. Senator in 1932, while continuing to exert influence over Louisiana politics.

Long grew increasingly critical of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, viewing it as insufficient in scope and too favorable to the wealthy. In 1933, he launched his Share Our Wealth program, which aimed to cap personal fortunes and incomes, provide guaranteed income, pensions, free education, healthcare, and public works. He also formed the Share Our Wealth Society, establishing local clubs and gathering mass support across the nation.

Long’s rhetoric and proposals gained enormous attention. Some historians argue that his pressure pushed Roosevelt toward more progressive legislation during the Second New Deal.

He famously filibustered the National Recovery Act, speaking for over 15½ hours in opposition.

Consolidation of Power & Conflict

Long’s governing style leaned authoritarian. He used patronage extensively, controlled the press via friendly newspapers, and openly intimidated opponents. He faced impeachment attempts and fierce resistance but used political leverage, populist appeal, and legislative maneuvers to survive. In his final years, he passed aggressive laws that expanded state control, weakened local government, and stifled dissent.

Assassination and Death

On the evening of September 8, 1935, Long was shot inside the Louisiana State Capitol by Carl Weiss, the son-in-law of a judge whose district Long had just redrawn. He managed to walk outside but died about 31 hours later (early morning, September 10) due to internal bleeding. Long’s last words are reported variously as “I wonder what will happen to my poor university boys” or “God, don’t let me die; I have so much to do.”

His funeral drew over 200,000 mourners. He was buried on the grounds of the Louisiana State Capitol, where a statue marks his grave.

Legacy and Influence

Huey Long’s legacy is deeply contested:

• Populist Symbol: To many, he was a radical champion of the poor, directly challenging wealth inequality and promising bold reforms.

• Authoritarian Critique: To others, he was a demagogue whose centralization of authority, use of coercion, and disdain for democratic norms foreshadowed authoritarianism.

• Political Dynasty: Long founded a powerful political machine in Louisiana. His family (including his brother Earl Long and his son Russell Long) carried on his influence in state and national politics.

• Cultural Impact: He inspired fictional portrayals (notably in All the King’s Men) and remains a referent in discussions on populism and economic justice.

• Policy Influence: Some historians credit Long’s pressure for pushing national policy toward more redistribution and social welfare during the New Deal era.

As one historian put it, Long was a bundle of contradictions: generous and tyrannical, charismatic and coercive, idealistic and manipulative.

Personality and Style

Huey Long was charismatic, theatrical, and highly ambitious. He had a flair for dramatic gestures, fiery speeches, and vivid metaphors. He often positioned himself as a man of the people, speaking directly to poor and disenfranchised audiences. He was also ruthlessly pragmatic: he did not shy away from using patronage, intimidation, or procedural tricks to get his agenda passed. He cultivated a cult of personality—his nickname “Kingfish,” his control over the press, and his penchant for dramatic photo ops all supported that image.

Famous Quotes of Huey Long

Here are several widely attributed quotes that reflect his rhetorical style and ideals:

“The only difference I ever found between the Democratic leadership and the Republican leadership is that one of them is skinning you from the ankle up and the other, from the ear down.” “I’m for the poor man — all poor men, black and white, they all gotta have a chance. They gotta have a home, a job, and a decent education for their children.” “Every man a king” (his signature slogan) “For the present you can just call me the Kingfish.” “We started them to school. They learned to read … Now some of our plantation owners can’t figure the poor devils out of everything.” “The time has come for all good men to rise above principle.” “One of these days the people of Louisiana are going to get good government — and they aren’t going to like it.” “It ain’t enough to get the breaks. You gotta know how to use ’em.”

His quotes often combine populist indignation with moral urgency, imagery of justice, and bluntness.

Lessons from Huey Long

1. Ambition must balance principle and process: Long demonstrates the tension between bold vision and the dangers of overriding norms.

2. Coalition-building matters: He built broad appeal among rural, poor, and working-class voters, which fueled his political leverage.

3. Symbolism is powerful: His slogans, gestures, persona, and messaging extended his influence beyond formal office.

4. Demands accountability: He showed that underrepresented communities can demand systemic change—and that political power can be reoriented.

5. Authority paired with restraint: Long’s style warns that unchecked centralization risks subverting democracy even if intentions seem benevolent.

Conclusion

Huey Long remains one of the most polarizing and evocative political figures of early 20th-century America. His life was brief, but his ideas—of wealth redistribution, populist assertion against entrenched elites, and ambitious public works—left a deep imprint. Whether remembered as a hero to the dispossessed or a warning about the seduction of power, Long’s legacy continues to provoke debate over how to balance democracy, justice, and leadership.