Robert B. Barnett, the renowned Washington, DC attorney and dealmaker who represented some of the most influential American political figures over the last five decades, has died at the age of 79. His passing was confirmed by his wife, Rita Braver, a veteran CBS journalist. “He was the greatest husband ever,” she said.
Robert Redford, Legendary Actor, Director, and Environmentalist, Dies at 89
A Legal Icon Bridging Political Divides
Barnett was celebrated not only for his legal expertise but for representing clients from across the political spectrum. While his Democratic affiliation was well known, Republicans also sought his counsel when navigating high-profile deals or book agreements.
Over more than forty years, Barnett built a client list that reads like a timeline of modern American politics, representing figures from Hillary Clinton to Sarah Palin. His career was defined by numerous multimillion-dollar deals and a rare ability to work seamlessly across ideological lines.
Career Highlights and Influence
A longtime partner at Williams & Connolly, one of Washington’s most prestigious law firms, Barnett played a key role in shaping the careers of politicians, journalists, and public figures. He was widely regarded as “Washington’s consummate insider,” a title Politico bestowed upon him in 2017.
Barnett’s influence extended into presidential politics, where he played pivotal roles in debate preparation:
- 1984 & 1988: Acted as George H.W. Bush to prepare Democratic candidates Geraldine Ferraro and Michael Dukakis.
- 1992: Practiced against Bill Clinton over 20 times during the Democratic primaries and general election.
- 2000 & 2004: Portrayed Dick Cheney in preparations for Joe Lieberman and John Edwards.
- 2008: Prepared Hillary Clinton for primary debates and later assisted Barack Obama after he secured the Democratic nomination.
- 2016: Supported Hillary Clinton’s campaign, portraying Bernie Sanders and Mike Pence during debate preparations.
One of Barnett’s most significant contributions was mediating between the Clinton and Obama camps following the heated 2008 primaries — a task he described as both complex and vital.
Personal Life and Legacy
Born in Illinois, Barnett earned his law degree from the University of Chicago after attending the University of Wisconsin. A proud Midwesterner, he married Rita Braver, a CBS journalist, and remained devoted to her for 53 years.
Barnett’s legacy is not just one of legal excellence but of fostering dialogue and bridging divides in an increasingly polarized political landscape.
Conclusion: Remembering Bob Barnett
Bob Barnett’s passing marks the end of an era in Washington, DC politics and law. His career was defined by integrity, an unparalleled ability to navigate complex negotiations, and a commitment to serving leaders on all sides of the aisle. Barnett’s life remains a testament to the power of dialogue, respect, and cross-party cooperation — lessons that remain vital today.