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Lee Hamilton, Indiana Democrat and 9/11 Commission vice chair, dies at 94
Former Rep. Lee H. Hamilton, the Indiana Democrat who served as vice chair of the 9/11 Commission and was widely recognized as a leading voice on foreign policy, has died at the age of 94. Hamilton, first elected to Congress in 1964, served 17 terms and remained active after leaving office, holding prominent roles at institutions such as Indiana University’s Center on Representative Government and the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies, which he co-names with the late Republican Sen. Richard Lugar.
Indiana University President Pamela Whitten praised Hamilton’s lifelong service, saying he profoundly shaped the understanding of democracy, global engagement, and principled leadership, leaving a lasting impact on the nation. Known early on as a moderate and independent-minded legislator, Hamilton in 1965 famously urged President Lyndon B. Johnson to “pause” in the rush to enact Great Society legislation. He went on to chair the House Intelligence Committee, the House select committee investigating the Iran-Contra Affair, and the House Foreign Affairs Committee, establishing a reputation for careful oversight and bipartisan engagement.
Later in his career, Hamilton’s voting record shifted somewhat to the right, particularly after his narrow reelection in 1994, aligning with Republicans on key votes on issues such as education access for children of undocumented immigrants and restrictions on “partial birth” abortions. Following the September 11, 2001, attacks, Hamilton was appointed vice chair of the independent, bipartisan 9/11 Commission after former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell stepped aside. His experience and reputation made him a top choice for leading the investigation and shaping its recommendations.
Born on April 20, 1931, Hamilton had no prior political experience before his first congressional campaign. He passed away on February 3 in Bloomington, Indiana, leaving behind a legacy of bipartisan leadership and dedicated public service.
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