Longtime Rep. John Dingell Dead at 92; Congressional Colleagues Pay Tribute: ‘A Towering Figure’

John Dingell, the longest-serving member of the House in U.S. history, died Thursday night at the age of 92.

In a statement put out by the office of his wife, Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) — who succeeded John in 2015 after he had served 30 terms representing Michigan’s 12th district — announced that her husband passed away at his home in Dearborn, MI.

Statement from the office of @RepDebDingell: pic.twitter.com/Jp82gvRWu2

— Phil Mattingly (@Phil_Mattingly) February 8, 2019

Members of Congress promptly took to Twitter to salute their longtime colleague. Here is a sampling:

America has lost a beloved pillar of the Congress & one of the greatest legislators in our history. @JohnDingell’s entire life was lived in service to our country. His leadership played an important role in the passage of both #Medicare and the #ACA. https://t.co/1nt6YqB0oe

— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) February 8, 2019

John Dingell was a towering figure in Congress. He was a master legislator, known for his tireless preparation, good humor and dedication to public service and oversight. I was lucky to call John Dingell my mentor, and even luckier to call him my friend. He’ll be forever missed. pic.twitter.com/MjrgcQPD67

— Rep. Diana DeGette (@RepDianaDeGette) February 8, 2019

I am saddened to hear of the passing of former Congressman John Dingell. He leaves behind an incredible legacy of selfless public service. My thoughts are with @RepDebDingell and her family during this difficult time.

— Rep. Adam Smith (@RepAdamSmith) February 8, 2019

Sending my love to the Dingell family tonight. John was an incredible leader and statesman, and I was lucky to serve with him in the House. Prayers for peace and comfort during this time.

— Shelley Moore Capito (@SenCapito) February 8, 2019

My thoughts and prayers are with my colleague @RepDebDingell tonight as she mourns the loss of her husband and former Representative @JohnDingell. Joe and I offer our sincerest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time.

— Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (@RepDLesko) February 8, 2019

Congressman @JohnDingell was a giant and a powerhouse for good who fought every day for his constituents in Congress. His dedication to public service should serve as an inspiration to everyone. My thoughts are with @RepDebDingell and their family. We lost a legend today.

— Colin Allred (@RepColinAllred) February 8, 2019

America is a better country because of @JohnDingell and his decades of service to our country. My heart goes out to @RepDebDingell & the Dingell family at this time. https://t.co/y0dzDABN2W

— Rep. Susie Lee (@RepSusieLee) February 8, 2019

So sad about the passing of Congressman John Dingell. He leaves an incredible legacy after almost 60 years serving in the House.

— Rep. Suzan DelBene (@RepDelBene) February 8, 2019

John Dingell was a legend and I am so sad to hear of his of passing. He will be sorely missed. Sending my warmest wishes to my good friend @RepDebDingell and their entire family.

— Rep. Lois Frankel (@RepLoisFrankel) February 8, 2019

We will miss you, Chairman Dingell.

— Ben Ray Lujan (@repbenraylujan) February 8, 2019

John Dingell was a giant. His fingerprints are on countless pieces of legislation that form the framework for our country, and no one told a better story. He will be missed but he will never be forgotten. Thinking of @RepDebDingell and his family today.

— Rep. Joe Kennedy III (@RepJoeKennedy) February 8, 2019

.@JohnDingell was truly one of the greatest FDR Democrats in the modern era. A master legislator, few people in our history, with the exception of US presidents, had such a profound influence on the issues that matter most to Americans. My heart is with @RepDebDingell and family.

— Ed Markey (@SenMarkey) February 8, 2019

[featured photo via Getty Images]

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