Remembering Howard Metzenbaum

Tip O'Neill said that, "All politics are local." He was correct, but a corollary is that, "All politics are also personal." A nice word, a human act, or a show of sympathy is likely to override policy differences or ideology. If you doubt me, take a look at longtime representatives in Congress -- from either side of the aisle -- who rack up big majorities, even from constituents of the opposite party. When you look behind the ideology, you'll find that the representative has made contact on a human basis through personal contact with the constituent, constituent services or simply the good relationships that have been established in the district. A call from a Congressman's office to straighten out a snafu in a Social Security check, or an appointment to a military academy often outweighs most any difference on policy.

I am from California, but several years ago, we took a trip to D.C. We got passes to the Senate and found ourselves in the Senate Cloak Room, a young couple from California with two young boys. I don't know why or how, but Howard Metzenbaum struck up a conversation with us. As he introduced himself as "Howard" his pager (yes, this was pre-cellphone) went off. Metzenbaum was a tall, thin fellow. He leaned over and asked our six-year old how to turn it off. Our kid was thrilled.

That is about all I remember of meeting the senator, but he was so friendly, outgoing, down to earth, and made such a wonderful effort to engage our boys that I remember him fondly. I also followed his career, and he was a great liberal and took on many causes for the benefit of ordinary people against the special interests.

As we slash and burn our way through the primary season, we would probably do well to remember the example of Metzenbaum and in the end, it all comes down to people.

Comments

[pupbayer]

He was a wonderful person. I met him several times and he was always so down to earth. If one of his constituents had a problem, he made sure it was dealt with. He was about serving people...imagine that! He will be missed!

[uffdacyd]

When I was in the 6th grade, I worked on Howard Metzenbaum's 1970 campaign. I had the privilege of meeting the Senator. He was a down to earth person who loved to listen to everyday people tell their story. I was impressed with him and remained so. I worked on every one of his campaigns. He was an outstanding senator for the state of Ohio who focused on consumers and their rights. He was an honorable politician - something you don't hear said anymore. I can't imagine Senator Metzenbaum stooping to the level that so many politicians do today. What the country could use is a few more Howard Metzenbaums. Thanks for a job well done and a life well lived. It was a pleasure and you will be missed.

[GnitenGoodLk]

Good man. Condolences to his family and colleagues for his loss. He was the original no-bs liberal and did the Democrats proud. It's nice to read positive stories like yours about politicians who can connect in a caring and human way with their constituents, especially our littlest ones. I agree with YellerDawg and go further to say this ability to connect is sorely lacking in our government right now and the results have been devastating.

[YellerDawg]

He was a true statesman. Too bad there aren't many women or men like that around anymore.