GOP Kingmaker Dead at 79

One of the most prolific kingmakers in the Republican Party has passed away.

Reports broke on Thursday that Richard Quinn had died.

He was 79 years old.

The Kingmaker

We often talk about Donald Trump being the kingmaker of the Republican Party these days, but there is a man who is a true legend of the party on this front.

Richard Quinn Sr., who was part of the original campaigns of major establishment Republicans such as the late Senator John McCain (R-AZ) and Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), died this week.

His cause of death was not immediately released.

If you are only new to politics, Quinn was the man behind the curtain for many years, setting up establishment GOP candidates for big wins in key races.

In addition to the names mentioned above, Quinn had also helped the likes of Gov. Henry McMaster, U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson, Attorney General Alan Wilson, as well as Strom Thurmond and Ronald Reagan during his career.

McMaster commented on Quinn’s passing, stating, "Richard Quinn was one of the finest men I’ve ever known.

"Brilliant, generous, compassionate — and devoted to his family and friends. His contributions to our state’s progress are immeasurable. He was my friend. Peggy and I will never forget him. Our hearts and prayers are with his family."

Senator Graham was clearly upset by Quinn’s death, which is understandable considering the influence Quinn had on his career and the conservative movement in South Carolina.

Graham stated, "He helped me get my start in South Carolina politics and was instrumental in building the modern Republican Party."

Quinn’s career, however, was not without controversy.

In 2017, Quinn had been indicted by a grand jury on charges of being part of a criminal conspiracy and failing to register as a lobbyist.

Quinn eventually pleaded guilty and agreed to testify, but he was hit with charges again for having lied during two grand jury appearances.

Quinn eventually settled those charges with an Alford plea, which means he did not admit guilt but conceded that a jury would likely find him guilty.

He was given 18 months of home detention and two years probation.

At one point during his career, if you wanted to get legislation passed or a new candidate into Congress, it was Quinn at the top of your list of people to call for his influence… and now he is gone.