Former Oregon 4th District Representative Jim Weaver has died. The Democrat served in Congress from 1975 to 1987.
Cynthia Wooten was part of Weaver’s staff. She said he was elected as part of what was called the Watergate school of legislators, after the resignation of Richard Nixon. She said it was a new day in terms of legislation and an exciting time in Washington.
“One of the things that was extraordinary about Jim’s time in Congress is the incredible amount of legislation that he both initiated and was able to pass with the help of northwest environmental organizations and other members of congress and his remarkable staff in Washington and in the district.”
Weaver was born in 1927. He’d been in a memory care home in Eugene and Wooten told KLCC his wife was able to be with him in his final days, according to Wooten.
Jim Weaver was succeeded by Peter DeFazio in Congress. DeFazio released this statement:
"I’m saddened by the passing of my predecessor, former boss, and mentor Jim Weaver. Jim was a tireless advocate for the environment, a passionate wilderness conservationist, a voice for peace in the midst of the Vietnam War, and a principled lawmaker. He made a tremendous impact in both the halls of Congress and at home in southwest Oregon, and his guidance and friendship will be missed by all who knew him.”
Weaver was preceded in Congress by Republican John Dellenback.
Copyright 2020 KLCC.
