Mark Schauer: “Colleagues, I can think of no greater honor than to pay tribute to John D. Dingell, Jr. of Michigan, who, today, becomes…”

“Colleagues, I can think of no greater honor than to pay tribute to John D. Dingell, Jr. of Michigan, who, today, becomes the longest serving Member in the 220-year history of the U.S. House of Representatives. As one of Michigan's newest Members, today is my 36th day as a Member of Congress. Today is John Dingell's 19,420th day. As Chairman Dingell told the press this week, "It isn't how long, it's how well." No one has done it better than Chairman Dingell. As a Representative whose district is next door to his, what is most remarkable to me is how universally loved, revered and respected he is by his constituents. Their faith in him is acknowledgment of his selfless service and unblemished record of always putting the needs of real people first, whether championing universal health care, clean water or good jobs and a strong middle class. In the many years I've known Chairman Dingell, he has been a great and supportive mentor. My first week on the job here, the Dean offered me a simple piece of advice, stay focused on the issues that are most important to your constituents and your district, and ignore the rest. Chairman Dingell, thank you for sharing your wisdom and being the statesman that our founders envisioned. And most of all, thank you for all that you continue to do.”