WASHINGTON, DC - House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton issued the following statement in honor and recognition of his friend, Michigan colleague, and former Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman John D. Dingell, who today became the longest-serving Member of Congress in the history of the United States.
“Historians will forever rank John Dingell among the greatest members ever to serve in the United States Congress. Administrations have come and gone, wars have been fought, and the great headlines of the day have all but faded, but the gentleman from the Great State of Michigan presides. For decades, John has earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues for his thoughtful leadership, masterful command of the legislative process, and love for our great nation. It has been a privilege to continue to work beside him on so many issues important to our state and the nation: fighting for Michigan’s manufacturers and auto industry, defending our treasured Great Lakes, and enacting comprehensive pipeline safety standards, only to name a few. But above all, it is an honor to call him a close personal friend."
Dingell has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since December 1955. Before Upton became Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce in 2011, Dingell served as Chairman from 1981 to 1994 and again from 2007 to 2008.
