[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 85 (Friday, June 14, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E866]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING CONGRESSMAN JOHN DINGELL

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 13, 2013

  Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my 
congratulations to Representative John Dingell for his remarkable 
career and service to our country.
  Last week, he celebrated an accomplishment that--like Joe DiMaggio's 
hitting streak--is likely never to be broken. Last week, John Dingell 
served his 21,000 day in the House of Representatives--and he is now 
the longest-serving member in the history of Congress. Not one of us in 
the House today has served a single day without having John Dingell as 
a colleague.
  His influence goes far beyond his longevity. When I came to Congress 
in 1999, my goal was to join the Energy and Commerce Committee, a 
committee that John Dingell chaired, shaped and made into a powerful 
force. He has helped to enact some of the most important laws of our 
time--from the Civil Rights Act to the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts 
to Medicare and the Affordable Care Act. He is a champion of working 
people and a believer in the American Dream--creating opportunity for 
all.
  Countless members of Congress have learned valuable lessons from John 
Dingell. One of the most valuable lessons I learned from Congressman 
Dingell was how to question witnesses appearing before the Committee. 
He fights tirelessly to represent his district and his constituents. He 
has mentored generations of high-quality and devoted staffers. He has 
taught us that our job is not just about legislating, but about 
oversight--and he is known for his skills in both areas. His efforts 
have helped millions and have resulted in a more effective and 
accountable government for the American people.
  I am grateful to have John Dingell as a friend and a colleague. I 
congratulate him on all that he has accomplished, and I wish him and 
his extraordinary wife Deborah all the best as he continues to serve 
the 12th Congressional District of Michigan and the nation.

                          ____________________