Robert Barnett ‘68, a revered legal mind and behind-the-scenes force in American politics, passed away on September 26, 2025, in Washington, D.C. He was 79.
Born on August 26, 1946, in Waukegan, Illinois, Barnett was the son of Betty and Bernard Barnett. He graduated from Waukegan High School as class president in 1964, then studied English and history at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he met the woman who would be his wife of 53 years, Rita Braver ’70. He later earned his law degree from the University of Chicago in 1971.
Barnett began his legal career clerking for Judge John Minor Wisdom and later for Supreme Court Justice Byron White. He went on to serve as an aide to Senator Walter Mondale, forging lifelong political connections. In 1975, he joined Williams & Connolly, where he built a reputation as a principal negotiator and legal strategist.
Over five decades, Barnett became known as a consummate Washington insider, representing figures across the political spectrum — from Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama to Dick Cheney and Sarah Palin. He brokered multimillion-dollar book deals for presidents, vice presidents, cabinet officials, and journalists, including Braver, a longtime correspondent for CBS News.
Barnett also assisted in 10 presidential campaigns, particularly with coaching candidates for debates. He famously played the role of opponents in mock debates, helping Geraldine Ferraro, Bill Clinton, Joe Lieberman, and Hillary Clinton prepare for the national stage.
Despite his deep Democratic ties, Barnett was respected by Republicans and Democrats alike for his discretion, loyalty, and unmatched dealmaking skills. His legacy is one of bipartisan influence, intellectual rigor, and quiet power.
Barnett and Braver maintained a strong relationship with their alma mater, giving generously to support UW–Madison and especially its department of political science, where both served on the board of visitors. The couple received the UW’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2010.
Barnett is survived by his wife, Rita; daughter, Meredith; and son-in-law, Daniel Penn. His impact on American political life will be felt for generations.
