Underwood, Thomas R. (Thomas Rust), 1898-1956.

Journalist, Congressman.

Underwood, born in Hopkinsville, Ky., lived most of his adult life in Lexington, Ky., where he was associated with the Lexington Herald, beginning in 1911 and serving as editor between 1935 and 1956. He wrote political columns, was active in Kentucky political campaigns, and was chairman of the Democratic State Central and Executive Committee. He was elected to Congress in 1948 and 1950, and named to the Senate in 1951 to fill the vacancy created by the death of Senator Virgil M. Chapman. Underwood held the office of secretary of the Kentucky State Racing Commission for four terms and from 1934 to 1949 he was secretary of the National Association of State Racing Commissioners.