Statement of Mayor Paul Soglin on the Death of Former Wisconsin Congressman Bob Kastenmeier

Bob Kastenmeier was not only a role model to me, but also a great friend to Madison. He leaves an incredible legacy of honesty, of standing up for what is right, speaking out against injustice, and supporting residents of Wisconsin's 2nd Congressional District.

Congressman Kastenmeier was an early foe of the repressive House Un-American Activities Committee when only six members called for its abolition.

He was an early and vocal opponent of the war in Vietnam warning in October of 1963 that U.S. military advisors could escalate to a disastrous full-scale American participation in the war. He even brought his House subcommittee to Madison to hold public hearings on the impact the war was having on his constituents here.

A ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee, while others participated in hearings, he quietly drafted the articles of impeachment for President Nixon. When shown the articles, Nixon resigned sparing the country a lengthy impeachment process.

He served his constituents and our country well. My sympathies to his wife Dorothy and his entire family.