Via WaPo: Rep. Tom Lantos Dies at Age 80

Rep. Tom Lantos, 80, a California Democrat whose experience during the Holocaust shaped his concern for human rights and his staunch view in favor of U.S. military intervention abroad, died early this morning, a spokeswoman told the Associated Press. He had esophageal cancer and died at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda.

Lantos, born in Budapest to Hungarian Jews, served 14 terms in the House of Representatives. He is the only Holocaust survivor elected to Congress. His district included southwest San Francisco and much of San Mateo County, where he was known for supporting the socially liberal agenda of his constituents. Last year, he announced he would not seek reelection because of his cancer treatment.

His was truly an extraordinary story–from member of the anti-Nazi resistance to prisoner in Hitler’s death camp to member of the U.S. House of Representatives. His life also underscores the ability of those born elsewhere to come to the United States and not only become a citizen, but a key member of society.

May he rest in peace and may his family find comfort in this difficult time.