Washington (Eurotoday) – Bob Barnett, a legendary Washington, DC, attorney known for brokering high-profile book deals and representing leading politicians across party lines, died at age 79. His extensive career made him a pivotal figure in the political and legal landscape spanning multiple presidential administrations.
Bob Barnett’s Death Announced at Age 79
As reported by Jeff Zeleny of CNN on 26 September 2025, Robert “Bob” Barnett passed away at a hospital in Washington, DC. His wife, Rita Braver, a veteran CBS journalist, confirmed his death, describing him as “the greatest husband ever”.
Barnett died after a long and influential career as one of the capital’s most trusted and discreet legal intermediaries.
Career as a Political and Publishing Powerhouse
Barnett was a partner at the prestigious law firm Williams & Connolly and built a reputation as the go-to attorney for political figures seeking media and book publishing deals. Over several decades, he represented three consecutive presidential administrations’ first families: the Clintons, the Bushes, and the Obamas.
Renowned for his skill in negotiating lucrative publishing contracts, Barnett facilitated multimillion-dollar book deals for Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Michelle Obama, among others.
A Bridge Across Political Divides
Though a longtime Democrat and early supporter of Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton’s campaigns, Barnett was respected by Republicans and Democrats alike. He worked extensively with bipartisan clients, from Ted Kennedy and Mitch McConnell to Paul Ryan and Elizabeth Warren.
He joked about his clientele representing “World War III” if they all gathered in one room owing to the political diversity he navigated with discretion.
Political Campaign and Debate Role
Barnett also played a unique role as a political debate coach and practice opponent. He participated in ten national presidential campaigns, sometimes portraying opponents in mock debates and helping candidates prepare for televised appearances.
Notably, he portrayed critics like George H.W. Bush to help Democratic candidates sharpen their strategies during historic campaigns.
Personal Life and Legacy
Born on 26 August 1946, in Waukegan, Illinois, Barnett graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Chicago Law School. He married CBS journalist Rita Braver in 1972, and they had one daughter .
His colleagues remember Barnett as a dedicated professional, known for a distinctive style featuring tortoise-shell glasses, cufflinks, and a measured demeanor balancing forthrightness and confidentiality.
Tributes from Colleagues and Public Figures
Public figures and former clients expressed condolences and praised Barnett’s unparalleled role in shaping political-media relations. CBS journalist Rita Braver’s reflective remarks highlighted his personal warmth and unwavering support.
Williams & Connolly released a statement mourning the
“loss of a longtime partner and friend who was a consummate dealmaker and a pillar of Washington’s political community”.
Seems like without Bob Barnett, the political circus in D.C. might just have to start using a less experienced ringmaster. 🥳 Good luck finding someone else to juggle those egos and keep them from throwing chairs at each other! Seems Bob Barnett has finally closed the biggest deal of all – a one-way ticket to the great courtroom in the sky. Guess he won’t be negotiating for those book deals anymore; I wonder if they’ll still call it a “page-turner”? 📖😏 A real titan of the legal world, gone at 79—just when he was about to broker a deal for the afterlife’s best-seller list. Who knew negotiating with the big shots would be a one-way ticket? 🤷♂️💼 Bob Barnett’s passing is just what DC needed—another excuse for politicians to play nice in their “sad faces” club. Guess they’ll have to negotiate their book deals without the wizard now. 🥴📚 Washington (Eurotoday) – Bob Barnett, a legendary Washington, DC, attorney known for brokering high-profile book deals and representing leading politicians across party lines, died at age 79. His extensive career made him a pivotal figure in the political and legal landscape spanning multiple presidential administrations. “O Turnhout (Eurotoday Newspaper) – VRT presenter Arnout Hauben launched the Turnhout Podwalk in September 2025, a free 6 km walk with 27 stops, highlighting women’s history, supported by Councillor for tourism Annemie Der Kinderen and local guides.
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