Upton, Benson, Many Others React To The Passing of John Dingell

Reaction was quick as word spread of the passing of long time Michigan Representative John Dingell, who died Thursday night, just one day after it was announced he had entered hospice care with cancer.

Another long serving Representative, from the opposite side of the aisle, Republican Fred Upton offered high praise for his fellow Michigan colleague:

“John Dingell’s colleagues - and I was proud to be one of them - were always educated, inspired, and in fact awed by him. “With John you always knew where you stood. If you disagreed you better have a damn good reason why. Simply reverting to rhetoric or the party line would not fly because he knew the issues 'inside and out' and always did his homework. John would out-think, outwork, and outfox nearly everyone. John was enormous in stature, integrity, and accomplishments. When he put his hand on your shoulder and spoke, you listened. Representing the great state of Michigan was truly a labor of love and John Dingell fiercely fought to support and rescue our auto industry in the toughest of times. There is a reason why a Dingell has represented Southeast Michigan for some 86 years. Their constituents know they always put country over everything else. They have all been chiseled from the same block of gold.” - Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph

Newly elected Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer pointed out an "old school" trait of Dingell's. saying  "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."

Newly elected Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said:

“Congressman John Dingell lived a life of service to our state and country. His leadership, wisdom and wit will be missed, but his legacy will live on through every person he inspired to lead and serve. Michigan has lost a legend who was both a strong, determined effective legislator and a kind, gentle public servant dedicated to his constituents. I am grateful for the example he set and for being our fierce champion these many years.” -MI Sec. of State Jocelyn Benson