Honoring Congressman John Dingell on his Retirement

Floor Speech

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Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, it's an honor to rise tonight and speak on
behalf of my friend and colleague--the Dean of the House of
Representatives--John Dingell. A proud son of Michigan, John Dingell
has dedicated his life to helping those on society's margins and
improving quality of life for all Americans. While he is the longest
serving member of the House, he is also one of the most accomplished
members in its history.

It would be impossible to list all of John Dingell's accomplishments
in the time we're allotted tonight. But make no mistake--John Dingell
has played a role in every major legislative victory over the last
sixty years. Throughout his time in Congress, he has been a champion
for the American worker, for a clean environment, for health care, for
civil rights, for consumers.

When I arrived in the House, I received a seat on the Public Works
and Transportation Committee as my freshman assignment. However, I soon
realized that my interests and principles were outside the scope of
that particular committee. One day, I passed 2123 Rayburn and sat down
to watch a hearing of the Energy and Commerce Committee

For the first time, I saw firsthand our Committee at work. And, for
the first time, I saw John Dingell in action. He filled the whole room.
You couldn't miss him. That day changed everything. What I quickly
realized was that the Energy and Commerce Committee had the ability to
make improvements in the lives of everyday Americans. And John Dingell
was leading the way.

I have had the privilege to learn so much from John ever since I
started on the Energy and Commerce Committee. A quarter century later,
I am still humbled by the work that we do in 2123--now known fondly,
and rightly so, as the John Dingell Room. And I can only hope to one
day live up to the example set by a titan like John Dingell.

A few weeks ago, our new colleague, Debbie Dingell, said that she
could never fill the shoes of John Dingell--and I feel the same way.
When people think of the Energy and Commerce Committee, they cannot
help but think of John Dingell. It is my own hope, that as I step into
the committee's leadership I will be able to accomplish a small
fraction of what John had achieved. His commitment, charisma and charm
were the hallmarks of his leadership when he sat at the committee's
helm.

More importantly, he will be remembered for all he accomplished on
behalf of the American people. Though the 114th Congress will be
difficult for so many of us, who have served by your side, we are all
so thrilled that your wife Debbie will take up the mantle. For those of
us who have known her we know that there is no one more able and ready
to carry on your legacy--the people of Michigan's 12th will continue to
be well served. While you may be retiring, we know that you aren't
going away. I know that for so many of us who have called you a mentor
and a friend we will still be able to call on your sage advice and
wisdom.

Congratulations on your many accomplishments and service in this
great body. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve alongside you.

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