By RFD Radio
SPRINGFIELD – An Illinois political icon has died.
Abner Mikva, 90, who took on big roles in Washington and Springfield, has died at the age of 90 after a battle with cancer. Mikva worked for liberal causes until the very end, most recently pushing for the U.S. Senate to consider the nomination of Supreme Court nominee Merrick Garland. He served five terms in the Illinois General Assembly, five terms in Congress, became a judge for 15 years for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, and then served as White House Counsel to President Bill Clinton.
U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, a Springfield Democrat, described Mikva as his “North Star for integrity, independence and progressive values.”
“In an era of cynicism and disappointment, Abner’s record of public service was proof that the good guys can win without selling their souls,” Durbin said in a statement.
Governor Bruce Rauner issued the following statement:
“Abner Mikva was a dedicated public servant and principled leader, and his focus on encouraging youth to become active and engaged in the democratic process will be felt for generations. Our thoughts are with the entire Mikva family as they mourn their loss today.”
President Barack Obama awarded Mikva the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014.
