William Delahunt, Former Congressman and Skilled Bipartisan Negotiator, Dies at 82

William Delahunt, a former Democratic Congressman from Massachusetts who was widely respected for his ability to work across the aisle, died on Saturday at his home, a family spokesman said. He was 82 years old.

“While we mourn the loss of such a tremendous person, we also celebrate his remarkable life and his legacy of dedication, service, and inspiration,” Delahunt’s family said in a statement. “We could always turn to him for wisdom, solace, and a laugh, and his absence leaves a gaping hole in our family and our hearts.”

Delahunt represented Massachusetts’ 1oth district from 1997 to 2011, when he retired from the chamber. In an interview with the Boston Globe shortly before his congressional exit, Delahunt said that he owed his successful legislative career to his skill with bipartisan negotiation.

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