William Ellsworth

William Ellsworth portrait

William Wolcott Ellsworth

U.S.A.

Party Whig
Latest Campaign State Governor
Date of Birth November 10, 1791
Date of Death Jan. 15, 1868 (Age: 76)
Overall Community Sentiment: Neutral

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Overview
Community
Analysis
Personal Background

William Ellsworth graduated from Yale College and was admitted to the bar. He held a professorship at Trinity College before entering politics. Ellsworth served in both state and federal legislative bodies, including the Connecticut State Senate and the United States Congress. He also served as Governor of Connecticut and later as a judge on the Connecticut Supreme Court. His career transitions reflect a progression from academia to public service and the judiciary.

Political Ideas

William Ellsworth's political identity is marked by a blend of progressive social reforms and judicial conservatism. His tenure as Governor of Connecticut saw him advocate for a progressive voter registration method and the establishment of a school commission, suggesting a forward-thinking approach to governance. However, his long service as a judge on the Connecticut Supreme Court and his refusal to accept Senate nominations indicate a steadfast commitment to judicial principles over political ambition. This juxtaposition of progressive governance and judicial conservatism creates an intriguing tension in his political philosophy.

Campaigns
1842: Connecticut State Governor

Election History

1842 Connecticut gubernatorial election

23,790 votes (46.34%)

Loss

Winner: Chauncey Cleveland

1841: Connecticut State Governor
ELECTED

Election History

1841 Connecticut gubernatorial election

26,986 votes (55.79%)

Win
1840: Connecticut State Governor
ELECTED

Election History

1840 Connecticut gubernatorial election

29,870 votes (54.17%)

Win
1839: Connecticut State Governor
ELECTED

Election History

1839 Connecticut gubernatorial election

26,358 votes (51.52%)

Win
1838: Connecticut State Governor
ELECTED

Election History

1838 Connecticut gubernatorial election

27,115 votes (54.14%)

Win
1837: Connecticut State Governor

Election History

1837 Connecticut gubernatorial election

21,508 votes (47.47%)

Loss

Winner: Henry W. Edwards