John Murtha: 1932-2010

Sad news... Pennsylvania's longest-serving United States Representative has died:

Representative John P. Murtha of Pennsylvania, a gruff ex-Marine who was one of the most hawkish Democrats in Congress but who became an outspoken critic of the Iraq war, died on Monday in Arlington, Va. He was 77.

He died while under treatment for complications of gallbladder surgery, his office said.

The first Vietnam veteran to serve in Congress, Mr. Murtha voted in 2002 to authorize use of military force in Iraq. But he evolved into a leading foe of the war as it was conducted under the administration of President George W. Bush.

Murtha will also remembered for challenging Steny Hoyer for the position of House Majority Leader in late 2006, as Democrats prepared to take control of Congress.

Murtha's decision to speak out against the occupation of Iraq (after having supported it early) was perhaps the highlight of his long career in Congress, which began when he won a special election in 1974. Murtha's stance eventually helped unify the House and Senate Democratic caucuses against the administration.

Murtha had a deserved reputation as a horse trader; he pushed vast sums of money into his district (which spans parts of Central Pennsylvania) from his position as chairman (and ranking member) of the House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee. He is likely to be succeeded as chairman by our own Representative Norm Dicks, who represents Washington State's 6th Congressional District.

The White House released the following statement in response to Murtha's death:

Michelle and I were deeply saddened today to hear about the passing of Congressman John Murtha. Jack was a devoted husband, a loving father and a steadfast advocate for the people of Pennsylvania for nearly 40 years. His passion for service was born during his decorated career in the United States Marine Corps, and he went on to earn the distinction of being the first Vietnam War combat veteran elected to Congress. Jack’s tough-as-nails reputation carried over to Congress, where he became a respected voice on issues of national security. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife of nearly 55 years, Joyce, their three children, and the entire Murtha family.

A special election will be held to determine Murtha's successor in Congress.