Lawmakers Still Seek Pardon for Jack Johnson
Senator John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.) are renewing their attempt to secure a posthumous presidential pardon for boxing great Jack Johnson.
The first African-American world heavyweight champion was known for a slick, counter-punching style inside the ring and a flamboyant lifestyle outside the ropes. His victory over former undefeated heavyweight champion James Jeffries in 1910 was dubbed the “Fight of the Century.”
Johnson’s victory over Tommy Burns to win the title in 1908 and public relationships with white women stirred up racial tensions and ultimately lead to his racially motivated conviction in 1913 of a violation of the Mann Act, which banned taking women across state lines for immoral purposes.
It’s always a good day when we manage to inject some pugilism into the Beltway discourse. Kudos to these two lawmakers for continuing to pursue the issue; hopefully we’ll get a shot to sit down and discuss the sweet science with both before too long.
As for the White House, we understand their wariness about wading into issues that should have been put to bed decades ago but some action on this appears warranted, especially considering the President’s biography.