Photo: Ryan Garza ~ USA TODAY NETWORK
DETROIT, Dec. 9, 2024 ~ As Congressman Dan Kildee prepares to leave office after 12 years of dedicated service, he joined “‘JR Morning with Guy Gordon, Lloyd Jackson, and Jamie Edmonds” to reflect on his journey, the challenges he faced, and his plans for the future.
Kildee, who has served the Flint region for over a decade, cited his battle with cancer and the tragic murder of his brother as pivotal moments that influenced his choice. “Having gone through my cancer gave me a chance to reflect,” Kildee said. “It made the decision easier. My brother’s murder erased any hesitation I had about going home full-time.“
PODCAST:
Dec. 9, 2024 ~ On Friday, U.S. Congressman Dan Kildee delivered his farewell address on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. Guy, Lloyd, and Jamie talk with the Flint Democrat about his legacy following 12 years in Congress and what he’ll be doing next in his career.
(CONTINUED) Kildee emphasized the importance of family in his decision, expressing his eagerness to spend more time with his loved ones, including his 90-year-old mother and his grandchildren. “The time that I have with my family seems even more precious now. So I’m really happy to be coming home full-time and being a full-time Michigander,” he shared.
Kildee went on to make it clear that he is not retiring. “After I come home, I will begin the role as the president and CEO of the Greater Flint Community Foundation,” he announced. “It’s an organization that spends its energy on local philanthropy, helping to connect donors who are interested in supporting the region with really good works done by local nonprofit organizations.”
VIDEO:
Dec. 6, 2024 ~ Michigan Democratic Congressman Daniel Kildee delivers farewell remarks on the House floor. Kildee, who has represented Michigan’s 8th Congressional District (Flint) since 2013, chose not to seek reelection. He served on the Ways and Means Committee and Budget Committee and focused on several issues, including addressing the water crisis in Flint, environmental protection in the Great Lakes region, trade, and healthcare.
(CONTINUED) Congressman Dan Kildee was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2012, taking over from his uncle, Dale Kildee, who had served the district for 36 years. Representing Michigan’s 8th Congressional District, Dan Kildee has been a key advocate for economic recovery and public health improvements. He was instrumental in obtaining federal funds to address the Flint water crisis, which included replacing lead pipes and enhancing healthcare services for the community. Additionally, he helped establish the Flint Registry to monitor the health of those affected by the lead contamination.
During his time in office, Kildee prioritized job creation and reducing healthcare expenses. He supported significant legislation such as the CHIPS and Science Act and the Inflation Reduction Act, aimed at boosting American manufacturing and lowering costs for families. Kildee also co-founded the bipartisan Congressional PFAS Task Force to tackle the issue of harmful chemicals in drinking water.
In March 2024, a tragic incident occurred when Congressman Dan Kildee’s brother, Tim Kildee, was killed during a confrontation with his 27-year-old son. The altercation began with a heated argument, during which Tim’s son demanded his dad’s wallet and car keys. The situation quickly escalated, leading to Tim being fatally shot. After the shooting, the suspect fled in his father’s vehicle but was soon involved in a serious car accident.
In the wake of his brother’s tragic death, Congressman Kildee turned focus to addressing gun violence and mental health issues. He became a strong advocate for stricter gun control measures and increased funding for mental health services. Kildee emphasized the importance of comprehensive background checks and red flag laws to prevent similar tragedies. Additionally, he supported legislation aimed at enhancing mental health resources and crisis intervention programs.
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