Longtime U.S. Texas District 4 Congressman Ralph Hall has died at age 95.
Hall, who serve multiple terms in the district, started out as a Democrat before switching to the GOP in 2004. There, he served for another 10 years until losing his 2014 bid to John Ratcliffe. He may also have been the last U.S. congressman to have served in World War II. He was a U.S. Navy fighter pilot at the war's end.
"What a privilege it has been to represent the good people of the 4th Congressional District of Texas for the past 33 years," Hall said in a statement after being defeated by Ratcliffe. "I am deeply grateful for the honor and want to express my heartfelt appreciation to those in the 4th District who gave me their vote of confidence time and again, who gave me the benefit of their wisdom and good ideas and who inspired me to do my best to represent their views and their vision in Washington. You will always be dear to my heart.
"Throughout my more than 50 years of public service, in the state of Texas and in Washington, America has faced many challenges, and there are many still facing our nation today. At 91 years of age, I am looking forward-not back and I am confident that my colleagues in Congress will continue to strive to achieve a vision that is worthy of this great nation, our people and our children and grandchildren."
Ratcliffe released a statement Thursday on the passing of Hall.
"Today the 4th District of Texas lost a great leader, statesman and friend," the statement said. "From his defense of our nation during WWII through his time as our Representative in Congress, Ralph Hall lived a remarkable life dedicated selflessly to serving his fellow citizens. Congressman Hall leaves behind a timeless legacy that will forever be remembered and appreciated by generations of Texans. Michele and I are keeping Ralph's family and loved ones in our prayers during this difficult time."
Hall made history in 2012 when he became the oldest member in recorded history of the U.S. House of Representatives to cast a vote at 89 years old.
After his 18,549th vote was cast, Rep. Lamar Smith, R-Texas, held a special order in Hall's honor. Colleagues on both sides of the aisle spoke of their years of service with Hall and the positive impact he has had in Congress.
"Throughout his time in Congress, Chairman Hall has served this institution with style and humor," Smith said. "It is an honor to work with Ralph as both a colleague and a friend. Ralph has always said, 'I'd rather be respected at home than liked in Washington.' Ralph, you actually have achieved that rare combination of both."
Hall had served on the Science, Space and Technology Committee during his entirety in office since 1980 and assumed the chairmanship in January 2011. He is also the only committee member to serve as ranking member as a Republican from 2007 to 2010 and as a Democrat from 1999-2003.
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