Theodore Olson, a former conservative lawyer known for arguing the 2000 Florida vote-recount case on behalf of President George W. Bush, has passed away at the age of 84. Olson, who also worked with David Boies to help overturn California’s Proposition 8 banning same-sex marriages, was remembered as a titan of the legal profession and an eloquent advocate. Over his career, Olson argued 65 cases in the Supreme Court, including cases related to separation of powers, federalism, voting rights, the First Amendment, immigration, and other constitutional and statutory questions. He served as the Justice Department’s assistant attorney general in charge of the Office of Legal Counsel from 1981 to 1984, and as solicitor general of the U.S from 2001 to 2004.
Olson was also an advisor to Presidents George W. Bush and Ronald Reagan, as well as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute since 2009. His wisdom and willingness to help others made him an invaluable member of the board, according to Fred Ryan, the chairman of the board. Ryan also highlighted Olson’s special bond with President Reagan, as Olson was not only his attorney but also his friend and confidant. Olson’s late wife, Barbara, was onboard the hijacked airplane that crashed into the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. Despite facing personal tragedy, Olson continued his work as a respected advocate in the legal field, receiving several awards for his public service and leadership, including the U.S. Department of Justice’s Edmund J. Randolph Award and the Department of Defense’s Distinguished Service Award.
Olson’s former law firm, Gibson Dunn, praised him as a trailblazing advocate who cared about all people and was not afraid to take on challenging cases. His Supreme Court arguments covered a wide range of legal issues, from voting rights to patents and copyrights, antitrust, taxation, and telecommunications. In addition to his federal roles, Olson also worked as private counsel to Presidents Bush and Reagan, showcasing his commitment to public service and the legal profession. His passing was mourned by many in the legal community, with colleagues remembering him as a creative, principled, and fearless advocate.
Olson’s legacy extends beyond his legal career, as he was known for his friendship with President Reagan and his dedication to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute. Despite facing personal tragedy with the loss of his wife in the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Olson continued to serve as a trusted advisor and advocate for important legal causes. His impact on the legal profession and his contributions to landmark cases such as Bush v. Gore and Hollingsworth v. Perry will be remembered for years to come. Olson’s passing is a great loss to the legal community, but his legacy of excellence and commitment to justice will continue to inspire future generations of lawyers and advocates.
