Bob Carr, a prominent Democratic figure who served 18 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, has died at the age of 81.
According to Detroit Free Press, Carr passed away peacefully on Tuesday after battling multiple health issues in recent years, including multiple myeloma and esophageal cancer.
Carr, born Milton Robert Carr in Janesville, Wisconsin, made significant contributions to American politics during his tenure in Congress. He was known for his work on the powerful Appropriations Committee, where he rose to become a subcommittee chairman. His career in the House spanned from 1974 to 1994, with a brief interruption in 1980-1982.
Carr's political journey began in East Lansing, Michigan, where he moved after completing his education in Wisconsin. His early career included working as an assistant to Frank Kelley, Michigan's longest-serving attorney general, alongside future Michigan Governor Jim Blanchard.
In 1974, Carr won his first election to Congress, riding the wave of anti-war sentiment during the Vietnam era. He defeated Republican incumbent Charles Chamberlain, whom he had nearly bested two years prior. This victory marked the beginning of a long and influential career in the House of Representatives.
Carr's time in Congress was marked by significant achievements and evolving political stances. He served as chairman of the Transportation Subcommittee, where he played a crucial role in crafting funding measures for transportation and infrastructure projects worth billions of dollars annually.
Over his 18 years in Congress, Carr underwent a notable transformation in his political image. He entered as what the Free Press described as "a brash, anti-war liberal" but later became known as "a tight-lipped conservative power broker" in Washington.
This evolution was evident in his approach to various issues and his increasing influence within the Democratic Party. Carr's interests were diverse, extending beyond traditional political boundaries. He was a pilot, a photographer, and served as chairman of the Congressional Arts Caucus for several years.
Carr's expertise and involvement weren't limited to domestic affairs. He played a role as an adviser to the SALT II arms control treaty in the late 1970s, demonstrating his engagement with international diplomacy and security issues.
Following his departure from Congress, Carr remained active in public life. He taught at George Washington University's Graduate School of Public Management and worked with the Brookings Institution. His continued involvement in policy and education showcased his commitment to public service beyond his time in elected office.
Former colleagues and fellow politicians have expressed their admiration for Carr. Former Michigan Governor Jim Blanchard said:
He was an enormously talented person. He seemed to be interested in everything and when he took on a subject, he always tried to master it.
U.S. Representative Dan Kildee of Michigan described Carr as "a true public servant," praising his dedication to his community, students, and friends. Representative Debbie Dingell, who had known Carr for nearly four decades, highlighted his personal battle with multiple myeloma and his contributions to various causes, including cancer research funding.
Bob Carr's passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Michigan's political history. His 18-year tenure in Congress, marked by leadership roles and diverse interests, left a lasting impact on transportation, arts, and international relations. Carr's evolution from an anti-war liberal to an influential figure in Washington reflects the complex nature of long-term political careers. His post-congressional work in education and policy analysis further solidified his legacy as a dedicated public servant. Carr's family has announced that a celebration of his life will be held after the fall elections, with donations to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation suggested in lieu of flowers.
