Califano, Joseph A., Jr.

Califano, Joseph A. (Anthony), Jr.

(1931– ) lawyer, cabinet member; born in New York City. A Wall Street lawyer, he rose rapidly in the Defense Department (1961–65), becoming Secretary McNamara's assistant. As President Lyndon Johnson's special assistant (1965–69), Califano designed his anti-poverty programs. As Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare (1977–79), he tried unsuccessfully to reorganize that agency, resuming his legal practice afterward.