Dave Obey
Dave Obey
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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David Ross "Dave" Obey is a former American politician who served as a U.S. Representative from Wisconsin's 7th congressional district.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born on December 3, 1939, in Escanaba, Michigan. As of my knowledge cutoff, he is still alive.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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American; former politician and educator.
Early Life and Background
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Dave Obey was born to a family that valued public service. His father was a teacher and his mother a school counselor. Obey's early life was marked by a strong sense of community and social responsibility, which would later shape his career in politics. He grew up in the small town of Antigo, Wisconsin, where he attended local schools before moving to Ashland University in Ohio for college.
Major Accomplishments
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As a member of Congress, Obey served 42 years, making him one of the longest-serving House members in U.S. history. He held various leadership positions, including serving as Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee and ranking member of the Ways and Means Committee. Obey was also known for his work on agricultural issues, education, and healthcare.
Notable Works or Actions
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Obey's tenure in Congress was marked by numerous notable works and actions:
He played a key role in shaping the Farm Bill, a comprehensive piece of legislation that impacts agriculture and rural communities.
As Chairman of the Appropriations Committee, Obey oversaw the allocation of billions of dollars for various government programs and projects.
He introduced several pieces of legislation aimed at improving education and healthcare outcomes.Impact and Legacy
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Dave Obey's impact on American politics is multifaceted. His dedication to public service has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in government and non-profit work. As a leader, he was known for his ability to build coalitions and find common ground between parties, which is increasingly rare in modern politics.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Dave Obey's legacy extends beyond his legislative accomplishments. He remains widely quoted and remembered due to his commitment to civic engagement and community development:
His work on the Farm Bill has had a lasting impact on rural America, where he was instrumental in securing funding for critical programs.
* As an educator himself, Obey understood the importance of accessible education, which is reflected in his efforts to improve educational outcomes through legislation.
Quotes by Dave Obey
There is a sign that hangs on my wall that says, 'What is it you want me to do to somebody else that is more important than what you want me to do for you?'
You don’t have to dislike people you disagree with and it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be able to have bipartisan friendships in this place. Life’s too short to have it any other way.
I opposed Clinton’s budget deal in 1997 because he brought in $115 billion cut in Medicare that created greater pressure for providers not to participate.
We need to be careful when we talk about cutting health care costs. They are not going to be reduced – what we really want to do is do is slow the rate of increase.
If you want quality service, you have to pay for it. You don’t buy into waste. I have great misgivings about the amount of advertising that we see in the health care field, some by hospitals, a lot by drug companies.
I have an obligation to fight and to fight hard for what I believe in and for the progressive principles that we are supposed to defend.
I opposed Clinton's budget deal in 1997 because he brought in $115 billion cut in Medicare that created greater pressure for providers not to participate.
Whether you are from Minnesota, Wisconsin or any other Northern tier state, you are not going to like the reimbursement formula. The problem we face is that we wouldn't have that formula if a majority of the states didn't like it, and they have the majority of the votes.
There is a sign that hangs on my wall that says, 'What is it you want me to do to somebody else that is more important than what you want me to do for you?
