FRESNO, Calif. (AP) — Pete McCloskey, a prominent figure in California politics known for his pro-environment and anti-war stance, passed away at the age of 96. McCloskey, a fourth-generation Republican often likened to Teddy Roosevelt, co-authored the Endangered Species Act and was a co-founder of Earth Day. He served 15 years representing the 12th Congressional District and even ran for president against Richard Nixon in 1972.
Throughout his political career, McCloskey clashed with party leaders and eventually distanced himself from the GOP, citing disillusionment with the party's direction. In 2007, at the age of 79, he switched parties, publicly disavowing the GOP due to what he perceived as influence peddling and ethics scandals.
