Whitmer, Obama, Biden and other leaders react to passing of John Dingell

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.

“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.”

”I am deeply saddened at the death of John Dingell. He will be remembered as of the greatest legislators in American history who never forgot about the people he served and the city of Detroit. When our workers or automakers needed help, John always answered their call. No one fought harder for working people in Congress than John did. When the Rouge and Detroit Rivers festered with pollution, John led the effort in Congress to clean them up. Perhaps most importantly, when his father died, John carried on his legacy of fighting for universal healthcare coverage. He presided over the House when Medicare passed in 1965, and he was there when President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law in 2010. More than 680,000 Michiganders have healthcare today thanks to John never giving up on his father’s dream. While it’s hard to imagine a world without John Dingell, his legacy of working to improve people’s lives will last forever. John was a great personal friend to me for more than 30 years. On behalf of the entire city of Detroit, our hearts and prayers go out to Debbie and the rest of the Dingell family during this difficult time.”

“Our hearts today are with Congresswoman Debbie Dingell and the entire Dingell family. Former Congressman John Dingell inspired generations of leaders and fought hard on behalf of the people of Michigan and our great nation. His legacy will live on in the work he has done to ensure Michigan and our nation remain vibrant for years to come. His presence, lifetime of service and remarkable wit will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.”

"Our nation, state and region have lost a dedicated public servant, fearless leader and gentleman. The dean of the House of Representatives leaves behind an incredible legacy that is woven into the American fabric. University of Michigan-Dearborn students, faculty, staff and alumni have long benefitted from a close friendship and partnership with Congressman Dingell, his presence on campus will be greatly missed. Thank you, Congressman Dingell for daring to make a difference."