Politicians release statement on Rep. Dingell’s retirement

The White House, Senator Carl Levin, and Governor Rick Snyder have all issued statements regarding the retirement of U.S. Representative John Dingell’s retirement:

From President Barack Obama:

“Serving nearly six decades in the House of Representatives, John Dingell has earned the distinction of being both the longest-serving Member of Congress in U.S. history and one of the most influential legislators of all time.  After serving his country in the Army during World War II, John was first elected to Congress in 1955 – representing the people of southeastern Michigan in a seat previously held by his father.  In Washington, John risked his seat to support the Civil Rights Act of 1964, fought to pass Medicare in 1965, and penned legislation like the Clean Air Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act that have kept millions of Americans healthy and preserved our natural beauty for future generations.

“But of all John’s accomplishments, perhaps the most remarkable has been his tireless fight to guarantee quality, affordable health care for every American.  Decades after his father first introduced a bill for comprehensive health reform, John continued to introduce health care legislation at the beginning of every session.  And as an original author of the Affordable Care Act, he helped give millions of families the peace of mind of knowing they won’t lose everything if they get sick.  Today, the people of Michigan – and the American people – are better off because of John Dingell’s service to this country, and Michelle and I wish him, his wife Debbie, and their family the very best.”

From Senator Carl Levin’s Office:

“John Dingell is a supreme fighter for working men and women who has built a record of accomplishment second to none.  I have known no better person in government during my 35 years in Congress.  His rare combination of legislative skill, steely determination, hard work and generosity of spirit have helped him play a vital role in almost every major congressional initiative over the last half century, including the civil rights revolution, historic protections for the environment, the establishment of Medicare and passage of landmark health insurance reforms.  Everyone who cares about Michigan has benefitted from his tireless advocacy for our state.”

From Governor Rick Snyder’s Office:

“John Dingell has devoted his life to public service, including serving in the U.S. Army during the Second World War, and dedicating nearly 60 years as congressman in service of the people of Southeast Michigan. Sue and I are proud to call ourselves his constituents.

“As the longest-serving member in the history of Congress, Rep. Dingell has shown the unique ability to put politics aside and work across party lines to help improve the quality of life for those he represents. Throughout his distinguished career, he has stood up for working families and worked to strengthen the economy. He has been a strong voice for civil rights, helped guarantee equal access and diversity in the Michigan school system, has consistently fought for our veterans, and led conservation efforts and worked to protect the environment, including helping establish the Detroit International Wildlife Refuge.

“We should all be proud and inspired by John Dingell’s lifetime of service to our state, and on behalf of all Michiganders, I sincerely thank the gentleman from Dearborn for everything he has done for our great state. I wish him, his wife, Debbie, and their family nothing but the best as they begin this new chapter in their lives.”