In John Dingell’s departure, a changing of the guard and the end of an old style of power

By: American Decency Staff

In the arc of Rep. John D. Dingell’s storied legislative career, it is easy to discern the fading trajectory of power in Washington over the past six decades.

He was the last of the true committee barons, one who muscled for legislative turf and who had been known to pound his gavel so hard it shattered.

But this is a city where no one seems to have the clout to make things happen anymore, and where even the most junior members of Congress have the ability to stop those who try.

Which is why it is no longer John Dingell’s Washington. And why he has decided to hang it up when his term ends.

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