Thomas C. Rabbitt
American politician (1905–1961)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Thomas Carlyle Rabbitt Jr. (May 15, 1905 – 1961)[1][2][3] was an American activist and politician who served as a member of the Washington State Senate from 1943 to 1947, and as vice president of the Washington Pension Union from 1938 to 1961.[4][a]
Thomas C. Rabbitt | |
|---|---|
Rabbitt c. 1943 | |
| Member of the Washington Senate from the 35th district | |
| In office January 11, 1943 – January 13, 1947 | |
| Preceded by | Joseph D. Roberts |
| Succeeded by | Charles J. McDonald |
| Personal details | |
| Born | May 15, 1905 Butte, Montana, U.S. |
| Died | 1961 (aged 55–56) |
| Party | Democratic |
Other political affiliations | Communist (disputed) Progressive (1948–1952) |
| Spouse | Marjorie |
He was elected as a Democrat with the support of the Washington Commonwealth Federation,[4] but during the Canwell Committee hearings in 1948 he was charged with being a secret member of the Communist Party by several former party members.[7] Rabbitt attacked their testimony as hearsay and challenged the legality of the hearings.[8] When he was called to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee in 1954, he was allowed to do so in a closed hearing due to health concerns,[9] and afterward stated that he had refused to answer questions.[10]
In a 2002 article, the Washington District of the Communist Party claimed Rabbitt as a member.[11]
