Thomas A. Wofford (February 23 1905 – March 2 1978) was an American lawyer and politician who briefly served as a United States Senator from South Carolina. He also held judicial positions in the state of South Carolina.
Early life and education
Wofford was born in Charleston, South Carolina. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of South Carolina and subsequently obtained a law degree (LL.B.) from the same institution.
Legal and military career
After admission to the bar, Wofford practiced law in South Carolina. During World War II, he served in the United States Army Air Forces, attaining the rank of lieutenant colonel.
Political career
In 1956, following the death of a sitting senator, Wofford was appointed by the Governor of South Carolina to fill the resulting vacancy in the United States Senate. He served as a U.S. Senator for a brief period until a special election was held to select a permanent successor.
Judicial service
Subsequent to his Senate service, Wofford returned to the legal profession and was appointed to a judicial position within South Carolina’s state court system, where he served until his retirement.
Later life and death
Thomas A. Wofford retired from public service in the 1970s and died on March 2 1978.
Legacy
Wofford’s career is noted for its intersection of law, military service, and a short tenure in the United States Senate, reflecting a pattern of public service common among mid‑20th‑century American political figures.