Overview

Edward Lunn Young (September 7, 1920 – May 9, 2017) was an American politician who represented part of South Carolina in the U.S. House of Representatives for a single term. A member of the Republican Party, Young served in Congress from January 3, 1973, to January 3, 1975. His career included both a period in national office and several later campaigns for statewide positions.

Life and political career

Born in 1920, Young entered public life at a time of significant political realignment in the American South. He was elected to the U.S. House as a U.S. Representative from South Carolina, serving one term during the early 1970s. While in Washington he took part in the routine duties of a freshman congressman, representing the interests of his constituents and participating in legislative activity for his district.

Elections and campaigns

After his single term in the House, Young continued to seek elected office. In 1978 he was the Republican nominee for Governor of South Carolina but was defeated by Democratic State Senator Richard Riley, who went on to serve as governor. Young later sought other Republican nominations; he lost a primary contest to John Light Napier and, following the 1980 defeat, stepped away from active electoral politics.

Legacy and significance

Young's public career illustrates the shifting partisan landscape of South Carolina in the late 20th century, when Republican candidates began to challenge long-dominant Democrats for statewide offices. His single term in Congress and subsequent gubernatorial campaign reflect the increasing competitiveness of the two-party system in the region during that era.

Death

Edward Lunn Young died in his sleep on May 9, 2017, at his home in Florence, South Carolina, at the age of 96. His passing was noted by local and state media as the end of a long life that included a brief tenure in national office and continued involvement in state politics.

Quick timeline

  • 1920: Born on September 7.
  • 1973–1975: Served one term in the U.S. House of Representatives.
  • 1978: Republican candidate for Governor of South Carolina; defeated by Richard Riley.
  • Late 1970s–1980: Continued running in Republican primaries; after a 1980 defeat he retired from politics.
  • 2017: Died May 9 in Florence, South Carolina.