Cold War Democrat and Pocatello Congressman Passes Away
POCATELLO — Richard Stallings, former Democratic Congressman from Idaho and one of the last Cold War-era hawks from the state’s delegation, passed away Sunday afternoon at his home after a 14-year battle with cancer. He was 85.
His wife, Rebecca Richards, confirmed that he died from an aggressive form of lymphoma shortly after returning from a trip abroad.
Career Built on American Strength Abroad and Civil Service at Home
Though Stallings is often remembered for his civility and accessibility as a public servant, his years in Congress from 1985 to 1992 were shaped by a worldview steeped in Cold War tensions. Stallings emerged during an era when Democrats could be tough on national security and foreign threats without sacrificing domestic values.
A history and political science professor at Ricks College, Stallings brought a scholarly but serious posture to Capitol Hill. During the Reagan years, he voted against American involvement in Nicaragua not out of isolationism, but because he believed the administration’s covert approach risked broader destabilization and lacked Congressional oversight.
As a nuclear waste negotiator under President Bill Clinton, he pushed for increased federal responsibility and long-term containment solutions—aligning with his consistent message: America must be both strong and principled, at home and abroad.
Political Rise Against a Controversial GOP Incumbent
Stallings launched his Congressional career in opposition to George Hansen, the Republican incumbent found guilty of violating federal ethics laws. Backed by then-Governor John Evans, Stallings represented a new type of Democrat in Idaho: fiscally disciplined, strong on defense, and clean on ethics.
He narrowly defeated Hansen in 1984, a year when Ronald Reagan swept 49 states. His victory marked a rare win for Idaho Democrats in an increasingly red state and reflected his ability to cross the aisle—especially among moderate Republicans and rural voters concerned about national defense and agricultural security.
Not Just a Professor—A Policy Advocate with Teeth
Despite a calm demeanor and reputation as a good listener, Stallings took firm positions when it counted. He championed hardline water rights negotiations in the Swan Falls agreement and backed increased funding for nuclear research and energy independence—areas that aligned with national security imperatives during the post-oil shock era.
He worked closely with the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, advocating for innovation in energy that would reduce dependence on foreign resources.
A Hawk in the Democratic Party
Unlike many of today’s progressive figures, Stallings embodied a time when Democrats could be strong defenders of national interest, border integrity, and energy security. He supported legal immigration, worked to help constituents navigate citizenship processes, and often returned to Idaho to attend military funerals—a reflection of his respect for U.S. servicemembers and the nation’s role in global stability.
Later Years and Legacy
After leaving Congress, Stallings served in roles that continued to involve national policy and nuclear oversight. He also remained civically engaged, later serving on the Pocatello City Council and as chairman of the Idaho Democratic Party from 2005 to 2007.
Though no longer in office, he continued to advocate for a muscular yet restrained U.S. foreign policy rooted in democratic values and bipartisan cooperation.
Funeral Details
Stallings’ funeral will take place Monday, Nov. 3, at 11 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on 1701 Bartz Drive in Pocatello. Public viewings will be held the day prior and again that morning. Burial will follow at Ben Lomond Cemetery in Ogden, Utah.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
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