Longest-Serving U.S. Rep. Dingell to Run Again

The longest-serving member of the U.S. House is running for re-election.

Michigan Democrat John Dingell of Dearborn told a College Democrats breakfast at the University of Michigan on Saturday that he plans to run again.

Dingell says the state needs experienced leaders in Washington to help get it out of its economic woes. He added, "Now is not the time to walk away."

The 83-year-old Dingell entered the U.S. House in December 1955 to replace his late father.

Nicknamed "Big John" for his imposing 6-foot-3-inch frame and sometimes intimidating manner, Dingell has been an institution in Congress for decades. He's wielded power over issues ranging from air quality and consumer protection to healthcare, automakers and energy.