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Recognizing and Honoring an American Giant: Congressman John D. Dingell, Jr

Date: Dec. 13, 2005
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Environment


RECOGNIZING AND HONORING AN AMERICAN GIANT: CONGRESSMAN JOHN D. DINGELL, JR. -- (House of Representatives - December 13, 2005)

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Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Michigan for yielding to me.

When I came to the House in 1999, I was often asked what surprised me the most. I answered that it was the passion, energy and depth of engagement of many of the longest-serving Members, and would cite John Dingell as the example.

John Dingell has been the driving force behind major landmark progressive legislation, from the Children's Health Insurance Program, to electric utility consumer standards, to environmental protections like the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act; and he is still going strong.

A master of the legislative process, he is legendary for his oversight hearings, dogged in his determination to protect the public by holding government officials, corporations, and others accountable for their actions.

John Dingell is a fighter. He continues to be a strong voice for consumers and workers in Michigan and across the country. He told us all at his magnificent 50th anniversary celebration that he has no intention of leaving the House anytime soon and that he intends to be chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee once again; and I fully believe it will happen, and very soon.

When it does, I will do all I can to support him as he works to win his goal of securing health care for every American.

Some have used the word ``feared'' when talking about John Dingell, and it certainly is true that you want to have him on your side and not against him. But the JOHN DINGELL I have personally experienced is a gentleman to all, a loving husband to his spectacular wife and partner, Debbie, a man who is respectful and generous to his staff, who in turn work tirelessly and effectively and are ever loyal to him. He is patient with newer Members, always willing to share his experiences and, when asked, offer solid advice.

I feel privileged to serve with JOHN DINGELL, a patriot, a role model, mentor, and friend. I thank him for his 50 years of service to our country and wish him many, many more.

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