AKA James Louis Oberstar

Born: 10-Sep-1934
Birthplace: Chisholm, MN
Died: 3-May-2014
Location of death: Potomac, MD
Cause of death: unspecified

Gender: Male
Religion: Roman Catholic
Race or Ethnicity: White
Sexual orientation: Straight
Occupation: Politician
Party Affiliation: Democratic [1]

Nationality: United States
Executive summary: Congressman from Minnesota, 1975-2011

Worked on Rep John Blatnik's Congressional staff prior to running for office, and succeeded Blatnik in Congress in 1974. "Blue Dog" conservative Democrat, generally opposing abortion rights, gun control, and stem cell research. Supported 2008 auto industry bailout, 2008 Wall Street bailout, 2009 economic stimulus, 2010 health care reform. Opposed the 1991 Gulf War resolution, 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), 2002 Iraq War resolution. Served 18 terms, longest stint in Congress in Minnesota history. Defeated for re-election in 2010 by Republican Chip Cravaack.

    High School: Chisholm High School, Chisholm, MN (1952)
    University: BA French/Political Science, University of St. Thomas Minnesota (1956)
    University: MA European Studies, College of Europe in Belgium (1957)

    US Congressman, Minnesota 8th (3-Jan-1975 to 3-Jan-2011)
    Congressional Staff for House Committee on Public Works (1971-74)
    Congressional Staff for Rep. John Blatnik (1963-74)
    Close Up Foundation Board of Advisors
    Democratic National Committee
    Kennedy Center ex-officio member
    National Student Leadership Conference Honorary Board of Advisors
    Hip Replacement Surgery Mar-2008

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