Third Way Statement on the Passing of Congressman John Dingell

WASHINGTON — Third Way issued the following statement from Matt Bennett, Executive Vice President for Public Affairs:

“Today, we mourn the loss of an American political giant and a friend. Congressman John Dingell was an Honorary Co-Chair of Third Way, and we were privileged to know his passion, brilliance, and wit. But his legacy is built upon much more: his lifetime of extraordinary service to our country.

“A World War II veteran and the Iron Man of the House, Congressman Dingell dedicated his life to making life better for the people of his district and his country. Over the course of his monumental career, John Dingell fought to make health care universal, to make work pay, and to make retirement dignified.

“Though he was an avid hunter and supporter of gun rights, in his work with us at Americans for Gun Safety, Congressman Dingell showed his principled belief that rights come with responsibilities and worked with then-Representative Carolyn McCarthy on legislation to improve the background check system.

“While Congressman Dingell’s retirement in 2015 left a marked absence in the House, his hilarious, irreverent, and insightful Twitter presence has been a bright spot in an increasingly dark political conversation.

“We are honored to have fought alongside Congressman Dingell. And while his passing marks a great loss for Michigan and our country, his legacy is secure. Our hearts go out to Congresswoman Debbie Dingell and to the legions of constituents, staff, colleagues, and fans who knew and loved him.”