[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 31 (Monday, February 23, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E293]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING JOHN D. DINGELL FOR HOLDING THE RECORD AS THE LONGEST SERVING 
                 MEMBER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                             HON. PHIL HARE

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 11, 2009

  Mr. HARE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 154, 
a resolution honoring my good friend and colleague, Representative John 
Dingell for becoming the longest-serving member of the U.S. House of 
Representatives.
  A true public servant, Mr. Dingell has devoted more than half of his 
life to the service of our nation both in his home state of Michigan 
and in the United States Congress. Today marks the 54th year of his 
commitment and dedication to the American people and a day when Mr. 
Dingell has surpassed every other member of the House of 
Representatives with the longest tenure in House history.
  Over the past half-century, Mr. Dingell has proudly championed the 
rights of workers from being a longtime supporter of equal pay for 
equal work, to supporting collective bargaining rights. However, he is 
perhaps best known for his vigorous approach to government oversight.
  As an icon serving on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Mr. 
Dingell fought for environmental protections and defended consumer 
rights. He displayed great leadership and stewardship in ushering 
through important pieces of legislation such as the landmark Endangered 
Species Act of 1973, and the Clean Air Act of 1990. Additionally, Mr. 
Dingell has consistently sought to uncover government corruption and 
waste, ensuring American tax dollars are spent wisely and 
transparently.
  Today, I proudly recognize Mr. Dingell's distinguished service to the 
United States. He has been and will continue to be a role model to me 
and hundreds of others in this chamber. I am honored to serve with him 
and wish him well on this historic day.

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