Why It Matters
In a striking display of cross-party unity, the Senate passed a commemorative resolution honoring the life of former Michigan Senator Donald W. Riegle, Jr., with overwhelming support from both sides of the aisle.
Donald W. Riegle, Jr. died on April 24, 2026, leaving behind a legacy that spanned nearly three decades of public service. He served Michigan in the U.S. House and Senate for nearly three decades, representing his constituents under seven presidents and witnessing some of the most consequential moments in modern American history.
One factor that made Riegle's career particularly notable was his willingness to evolve politically. He began his career as a Republican before switching to the Democratic Party in 1973, a move driven partly by his opposition to President Nixon's handling of the Vietnam War. His ideological journey attracted support from both Republicans and Democrats, each seeing in Riegle a figure worthy of commemoration.
A Career Defined by Major Legislative Achievements
Riegle's most significant contributions came during his tenure as chairman of the Senate Banking Committee. In this role, he led major financial reforms during the savings and loan crisis of the late 1980s and early 1990s. He was instrumental in legislation that reformed the savings and loan industry and preserved the FDIC's ability to protect depositors, including the FDIC Improvement Act (FDICIA).
Earlier in his career, while serving in the U.S. House of Representatives for five terms from 1967 to 1976, representing Michigan's 7th Congressional District, Riegle co-sponsored the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, demonstrating an early commitment to consumer protection and financial fairness.
After leaving the Senate following three terms from 1976 to 1995, Riegle remained engaged in public service. He was instrumental in investigating and publicizing Gulf War syndrome, producing the "Riegle Report," a Senate investigative report calling for further government investigation and recourse for veterans suffering from the condition.
The Resolution
Senate Resolution 755 was introduced June 1 by Sen. Gary C. Peters (D-MI) and quickly accumulated an extraordinary level of bipartisan backing, attracting 99 cosponsors: 53 Republicans, 44 Democrats, and 2 Independents. The measure passed on the same day it was introduced, underscoring the broad consensus around honoring Riegle's contributions, and included support from the highest levels of Senate leadership. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) both cosponsored the measure.
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