[img]1680|right|Henry Waxman||no_popup[/img]After winning election to Congress 20 consecutive times, starting in 1974, mostly on behalf of Beverly Hills and surrounding affluent Westside communities, feisty little U.S. Rep. Henry A. Waxman surprised friends and foes when he announced his retirement this morning on the 132nd birthday of one of his heroes, Franklin Delano Roosevelt.
Although the 74-year-old Mr. Waxman, one of the most liberal Democrats, distinguished himself – positively and negatively frequently enough to be continuously controversial – his departure announcement was pure pedestrian. “After 40 years in Congress, it’s time for someone else to have the chance to make his or her mark, ideally someone who is young enough to make the long-term commitment that’s required for real legislative success.”
He gave no indication of any personal infirmities, and no whispers have been heard about declining vigor and rigor.
He did cite age as one reason, and said he has “other avenues I want to explore.”
Potential Successors
Critics may argue that candor never was his strength, but there is no question that the ubiquitous Mr. Waxman – given his bald pate, muscular moustache and diminished height – cut a striking stance wherever he went or spoke out.
Who will succeed him as chief delegate for the most upscale communities in the South Bay and Westside?
South Bay mid-road Republican Bill Bloomfield, Mr. Waxman’s last challenger a year and a half ago, is not expected to make a second try.
As they jockeyed for advantage in the early going, Mr. Waxman never gave ground, argued with authority and usually prevailed.
Variety noted this morning that (t)wo independents — Marianne Williamson, a self-help teacher and author, and Brent Roske, a producer — already have been campaigning for his seat, arguing that it was time for a change.”
In the coming weeks, the ring of candidates doubtless will fill up swiftly.
“I first ran for office because I believe government can be a force for good in people’s lives,” said Mr. Waxman. “I have held this view throughout my career in Congress. I will leave the House of Representatives with my conviction intact. I have learned that progress is not always easy. It can take years of dedication and struggle. But it’s worth fighting for.
“My parents were scarred by the Great Depression and as a result they were ardent Democrats. They believed in the ideals of this wonderful country and made sure that I had the opportunity to be the first in the family to get a college education. They taught me that the special interests have plenty of advocates; it’s the poor, the sick, and the powerless who need a champion in Congress. That’s what I’ve strived to be.”
