attract attention: the man television audiences knew as Cooter was now a member of Congress.
Yet Jones’ political interests were not entirely disconnected from his earlier life.
According to accounts of his career, he had been involved in civil-rights activities during his college years and had developed political interests well before becoming a nationally recognized television actor. ([AP News][1])
His political outlook was also distinctive. Jones was a Democrat, but his views did not always fit neatly into conventional party categories. The Associated Press described him as combining liberal positions on social issues with more conservative economic views. ([AP News][1])
That independence became one of the defining characteristics of his political career.
## His Clash With Newt Gingrich
Jones’ political career also included a notable confrontation with fellow Georgia politician Newt Gingrich.
After leaving Congress, Jones continued to be involved in political
