Remembering Noel E. Parmentel Jr.: A Provocative Voice in American Politics

Noel E. Parmentel Jr.: A Life of Provocation and Influence

Noel E. Parmentel Jr., a fiery polemicist and political dissident, who played a significant role in shaping the thoughts of notable figures like Joan Didion, passed away on Saturday in West Haven, Connecticut, at the age of 98. His death was confirmed by his longtime partner, Vivian Sorvall, who noted that he died in a Veterans Affairs hospital.

Born into a family with modest means, as the son of a part-time automobile salesman, Mr. Parmentel became a prominent voice in American political discourse. He is perhaps best remembered for crystallizing the skepticism many Americans felt towards Richard M. Nixon with his provocative question: “Would you buy a used car from this man?” This query encapsulated the doubts surrounding Nixon’s character and integrity during a turbulent era in American politics.

A transplant from New Orleans, Mr. Parmentel was known for his flamboyant style, often donning impractically pristine white suits. He gravitated towards libertarianism and the political right, infusing his essays and public discussions with a blend of sharp wit and unabashed opinion. While he held strong views, he was less of a conventional partisan and more of an intellectual provocateur, challenging norms and sparking debates wherever he went.

Mr. Parmentel’s influence extended beyond the written word; he was a sought-after conversationalist in both upscale salons and lively barrooms. His presence was characterized by a unique ability to engage audiences, whether through his freelance essays, film reviews, or as a documentary filmmaker. He had a talent for unearthing uncomfortable truths that captivated listeners and readers alike, often eliciting amusement or ire.

Sam Tanenhaus, a former editor of The New York Times Book Review and biographer of William F. Buckley Jr., remarked, “Noel personified mid-20th century Manhattan — a kind of brawler’s Forrest Gump.” He was known for his ability to navigate the complexities of social interactions, “making friends, starting brawls, turning friends into enemies, sometimes pitting them against one another and then brokering truces.” Mr. Parmentel’s multifaceted personality and unyielding spirit made him a fixture in the cultural landscape of his time, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to engage with him.