Remembering Donald W. Riegle: A Legacy of Advocacy and Service
Donald W. Riegle, a former Michigan congressman who served for nearly thirty years, passed away at the age of 88 in San Diego. He began his political career as a Republican before switching to the Democratic Party. Riegle was known for his advocacy for justice, economic opportunity, and fairness for all. He fought against NAFTA, which he believed led to job losses in Michigan, and championed economic development and healthcare expansion in the state.
Born in Flint, Michigan, Riegle was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as a Republican in 1966 and later switched to the Democratic Party in 1973. He went on to serve in the U.S. Senate from 1976 to 1994. As chair of the Senate Banking Committee, he advocated for financial reforms in the savings and loan industry and fought for Gulf War veterans' rights.
Riegle was involved in the Keating Five scandal in 1990, where he faced Ethics Committee hearings regarding his ties to savings and loan figure Charles Keating. Despite the controversy, he was found not to have violated any laws or Senate rules. After retiring from politics, Riegle worked in government relations for a public relations firm.
In his later years, Riegle enjoyed spending time with his family in Michigan and California. He was survived by his wife, Lori Hansen Riegle, and his grandchildren. Memorial services for Riegle are currently being planned.