Robert Barnett, the Washington, D.C., lawyer who was famed for his literary dealmaking for clients including Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, died at 79, the New York Times reports.

Barnett, an Illinois native, was educated at the University of Wisconsin and the University of Chicago Law School. He joined the influential Washington law firm Williams & Connolly in 1975, where he worked until his death.

He first became involved in national politics in 1984, advising the presidential campaign of former Vice President Walter Mondale. After connecting Mondale’s running mate, Geraldine Ferraro, with an agent for her book, he decided to embark on an additional career as a literary dealmaker.

Barnett scored blockbuster deals for his clients, many in the political world, including former President Bill Clinton (My Life) and his wife, Hillary Clinton (Living History). He also represented former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama in their multi-million-dollar deals for their books.

His other clients included Dick Cheney, Tony Blair, James Patterson, and Mary Higgins Clark.

Barnett was remembered by his friends and clients on social media. On the social platform X, Bill and Hillary Clinton posted a statement that reads in part, “He was a dear friend, a trusted advisor, and steadfast guide to the publishing and entertainment worlds. Bob had an insightful eye for editorial detail and a keen ear for language and nuance, but more importantly, he was utterly devoted to his clients, always unfailingly generous with his time and his considerable talents.”

And former President Joe Biden wrote, “Bob Barnett was a force. He was also a decent, smart, and kind man of principle. Over the years, Jill and I sought Bob’s counsel time and again. He was always quick to pick up the phone and give us very honest and wise advice.…We will miss him dearly.” 

Michael Schaub is a contributing writer.