CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT ON REP. DINGELL’S RETIREMENT ANNOUNCEMENT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) issued the following statement on Congressman John Dingell’s announcement regarding his decision not to run for re-election to his House seat in 2014. John Dingell is the longest sitting member of Congress ever, having served as a Congressman from Southern Michigan for over 59 years:

“I was truly saddened to hear Representative John Dingell will be retiring at the end of his term. Rep. Dingell has faithfully served his nation for well over half a century, demonstrating an undisputed record of leadership and an unyielding commitment to duty. During his time in the House of Representatives, Rep. Dingell fought for the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and tirelessly worked to insure that every American would have access to affordable healthcare. Truly, he has helped to improve every American’s quality of life while standing in steadfast support of our nation’s rights and freedoms.

“On a personal note, it has been an honor to call Rep. Dingell my friend and colleague for the past two decades. While his presence, leadership, and exuberant spirit will be missed in the Halls of Congress, the deep legacy he leaves behind will live on in the hearts and minds of his current and former colleagues, as well as in the storied chronicles of the U.S. House of Representatives. I wish Representative John Dingell the best of luck as he moves on to future endeavors in his beloved state of Michigan.”