With support from the University of Richmond

History News Network puts current events into historical perspective. Subscribe to our newsletter for new perspectives on the ways history continues to resonate in the present. Explore our archive of thousands of original op-eds and curated stories from around the web. Join us to learn more about the past, now.

Richard G. Darman, 64, Aide for 5 Presidents, Dies

Richard G. Darman, who marshaled a deep, prickly intelligence to guide policy and deal making in four Republican administrations, including negotiating the reversal of the first President George Bush’s campaign pledge not to raise taxes, died Friday. He was 64 and lived in McLean, Va.

His death was announced by James A. Baker III, the former secretary of state and a friend of Mr. Darman. Mr. Darman had been fighting acute myelogenous leukemia, his son Jonathan said.

In addition to serving President George Bush in the cabinet-level post of director of the Office of Management and Budget, Mr. Darman worked in six cabinet departments and the White House. He controlled the paper flow to President Ronald Reagan, a pivotal responsibility.
Read entire article at NYT