John Dingell becomes longest-serving member of Congress ever

Rep John David Dingell Jr. (D-MI) officially became the longest-serving member of Congress ever.

Rep Dingell, 86, beat the record previously held by the late Sen. Robert C. Byrd (D-WV). If nothing else, Rep Dingell — whose service dates back to before Alaska and Hawaii were states — will be happy that the record rests again with a House member instead of in the Senate. He’s always been a House man, after all. For the record, Dingell’s got no plans on leaving, though he hasn’t yet committed to a 30th full 2-year term either. He’s been on the job since Dec. 13, 1955, after being elected to replace his dad.