Michigan has lost a political icon with the death of former Congressman John Dingell of Dearborn at the age of 92.
He was a staunch advocate for the auto industry, but was adamant that he represented the workers, not the companies.
Dingell served in the U.S. House for 59 years from 1955 to 2015, longer than anyone in history. The office has been held by his family since his father’s election in 1933, as his widow, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, won the 2014 election to succeed him.
His death came a day after it was revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer and had entered hospice care. Dingell introduced universal healthcare legislation every term to follow one of his father’s top priorities. He also was a proud member of the NRA and spearheaded the creation of Medicare, the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, and helped push the Civil Rights Act through.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered flags lowered to half-staff in his honor.
Statements from Michigan lawmakers follow:
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued the following statement on the death of former Congressman John Dingell, the longest-servingMember of Congress in American history.
“Today the great State of Michigan said farewell to one of our greatest leaders. John Dingell will forever be remembered as “The Dean” of Congress not simply for the length of his service, but for his unparalleled record of legislative accomplishments.
The Congressman’s grit, humility and humor taught us all that we can disagree without being disagreeable, while still finding common ground and working together to get things done. The people of Michigan owe John Dingell so much, from his brave service in World War II, to his leadership as Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, and his crucial role in passing some of the most monumental laws of the past century, including the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act.”
“We are a stronger, safer, healthier nation because of Congressman Dingell’s 59 years of service, and his work will continue to improve the lives of Michiganders for generations to come. I extend my deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Congresswoman Debbie Dingell and the entire Dingell family for their loss. In this divisive time, may we all draw wisdom and inspiration from the truly remarkable life of Congressman John Dingell, and may we all continue to learn from his example of selfless public service as we work to build a better future for our state.
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) released a statement following the passing of former U.S. Congressman John Dingell:
“Congressman John Dingell—the Dean of the House and my dear friend—was not merely a witness to history. He was a maker of it. His original family name, translated into Polish, meant ‘blacksmith.’ Nothing could be more fitting for a man who hammered out our nation’s laws, forging a stronger union that could weather the challenges of the future.”
“John Dingell loved Michigan. He understood the connection our people have to manufacturing, to agriculture, and to the land and the Great Lakes that support our Michigan way of life. His wife, Debbie, who has been his closest confidant for more than 40 years, is working hard to carry on his legacy. I know that all of us in Michigan are sending her and their family and many friends our love and support at this time.”
U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement on the passing of former Dean of the House of Representatives John D. Dingell:
“Chairman Dingell was a true statesman: he embodied the values, spirit and dedication that all public servants should aspire to have. He was a mentor to me and countless others who sought to give back to their communities. I will never forget his wise counsel as I learned my way around Congress.”
“Chairman Dingell will always be with us because his legacy will be forever woven into the history of Michigan and our country. Colleen and I are grieving with Debbie and the Dingell family as we remember the extraordinary Dean of the House. We will miss you Mr. Chairman.”
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson today issued the following statement on the death of former U.S. Rep. John Dingell:
“Congressman John Dingell lived a life of service to our state and country. His leadership, wisdom and wit will be missed, but his legacy will live on through every person he inspired to lead and serve. Michigan has lost a legend who was both a strong, determined effective legislator and a kind, gentle public servant dedicated to his constituents. I am grateful for the example he set and for being our fierce champion these many years.”
Michigan Republican Party Chairman Weiser Statement on Passing of Congressman John Dingell
“John Dingell was an incredible public servant who will be greatly missed. While we didn’t always agree on issues, I enjoyed Congressman Dingell’s company and admired his patriotism, his love for our state, and our shared love for the University of Michigan. My deepest sympathies go out to Congresswoman Dingell and the entire Dingell family.”
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