Report: Former Congressman John Dingell In Hospice Care

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Former Congressman John Dingell, the longest serving member of Congress in American history, is receiving hospice care. The 92-year-old Dingell was diagnosed last year with cancer and also suffered a heart attack last fall. His wife, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, successfully ran for her husband’s seat in 2014. She tweeted Wednesday morning that she was with him at their home in the Detroit suburb of Dearborn. She said they’ve “entered a new phase” and thanked people for their “friendship and support,” and asked for “prayers and privacy during this difficult time.”

John Dingell was first elected in 1955 to fill the House seat vacated by his late father and retired in 2015. The Democrat was considered a master of legislative deal-making and a staunch advocate for the U.S. auto industry. Congressman Fred Upton has issued a statement sending his well wishes and love to the Dingell family. He has worked closely with both on a variety of bipartisan bills over the years.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.