Representative Charles McKevett Teague

Charles McKevett Teague (September 18, 1909 – January 1, 1974) was an American politician of the Republican Party who served as a member of the United States House of Representatives for California’s 13th congressional district from 1955 until his death. Over the course of 10 consecutive terms in office, he represented his constituents in the House of Representatives during a significant period in American history, contributing to the legislative process and participating actively in the democratic governance of the nation.

Teague was born on September 18, 1909, and grew up in California, where he was exposed early to public affairs and civic life. His formative years coincided with major national developments, including World War I and the economic and social changes of the 1920s, experiences that helped shape his understanding of public service and the role of government. This background laid the foundation for his later commitment to representing the interests of his district at the federal level.

As a young man, Teague pursued his education with the intention of preparing for a professional career and future public service. He undertook formal studies that equipped him with the skills and knowledge necessary for work in law, business, or public administration, disciplines that were common pathways into politics in his era. His education contributed to his capacity to analyze complex policy questions and to participate effectively in legislative deliberations once he entered Congress.

Before his election to the House of Representatives, Teague embarked on a career that combined elements of professional work and civic engagement. In this period, he gained practical experience in dealing with economic, legal, or administrative issues affecting his community and state. This early career experience strengthened his understanding of the concerns of ordinary citizens and local institutions, and it provided a practical grounding that he later brought to his work in Washington, D.C.

Teague’s congressional service began in 1955, when he took office as the Republican representative for California’s 13th congressional district. He served continuously from 1955 to 1975, holding his seat through ten terms and remaining in office until his death. His tenure spanned the Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon administrations and coincided with the Cold War, the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War, and major shifts in domestic policy. As a member of the House of Representatives, Charles McKevett Teague participated in the democratic process, engaged in debate and committee work, and cast votes on legislation affecting both his district and the nation as a whole.

Throughout his time in Congress, Teague was recognized as a loyal member of the Republican Party who nonetheless had to respond to the evolving needs and priorities of his California constituents. Representing California’s 13th congressional district, he dealt with issues important to his region, including economic development, infrastructure, and the broader social and political changes affecting the state in the postwar era. His long service reflected the confidence of his voters and his ability to navigate the complex legislative environment of the mid-twentieth century.

Charles McKevett Teague died in office on January 1, 1974, bringing to a close nearly two decades of continuous service in the United States Congress. His death ended a congressional career that had begun in 1955 and extended through ten terms, during which he consistently represented California’s 13th congressional district and contributed to the work of the House of Representatives during a transformative period in American history.