Former Michigan Congressman Donald W. Riegle has passed away at the age of 88, his family announced Sunday.
Riegle suffered cardiac arrest Friday at his San Diego residence, where he had been living, according to a statement from his relatives.
“The cornerstone of our family, Don was a kind, loving, courageous leader who taught us to stand up for justice, economic opportunity, and fairness for everyone,” the statement said.
The longtime legislator served Michigan in Congress for almost three decades, working alongside seven different presidents during his tenure. His family noted his dedication to advocating for workers’ rights and his leadership role in Senate efforts to block NAFTA, the trade agreement that eliminated numerous manufacturing jobs throughout Michigan. He also championed economic growth initiatives and healthcare coverage expansion in his home state.
Born in Flint, Michigan, Riegle won his first House seat in 1966 as a 28-year-old Republican candidate. During his time in the House, he opposed President Nixon’s Vietnam War strategies and eventually switched his party affiliation to Democrat in 1973. He successfully ran for Senate three years later and remained in that chamber until stepping down in 1994.
While leading the Senate Banking Committee, Riegle advocated for major changes to savings and loan industry regulations. He also played a key role in securing medical care for veterans suffering from Gulf War syndrome following the 1991 Persian Gulf conflict.
His career faced scrutiny during the Keating Five scandal in 1990, when Riegle and four Senate colleagues underwent Ethics Committee investigations regarding alleged pressure on federal regulators to favor savings and loan executive Charles Keating, who had donated to their campaigns. The committee cleared Riegle of any legal violations or rule violations but concluded his actions appeared inappropriate.
Following his Senate career, Riegle joined public relations company APCO Worldwide as chairman of government relations in 2001.
During his later years, he enjoyed time with grandchildren and extended family between residences in Michigan and California, his family reported. His spouse of 48 years, Lori Hansen Riegle, was present when he died, the statement noted.
Plans for memorial services have not yet been announced.
