Former Senator Carl Levin Dies at 87

Carl Levin was Michigan’s longest-serving U.S. senator. Today, he passed away at the age of 87. The Levin Center at Wayne State University stated, "With great sadness and heavy hearts, the (center and family) announce the passing of Senator Carl Levin."Levin was a staunch supporter of the military. Similarly, Levin was formally the chair of the Senate Committee on Armed Services. He occupied this post from June 6, 2001 – January 3, 2003. And then held the office again from January 3, 2007 – January 3, 2015. Late U.S. Sen. John McCain stated, “We could not aspire to better service than what he has given our country."Furthermore, he played a key role in the overturning of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. Carl Levin was also the sponsor of 51 bills that eventually became law. These mainly focused on Foreign Trade and International Finance, as well as Armed Forces and National Security.Although a Democrat, Levin was a bipartisan lawmaker. Frequently working with political opponents to accomplish his goals. He was also known to criticize both parties during his 36 years in the Senate. Much to the chagrin of political hardliners. Late-Republican Sen. John Warner frequently worked with Levin on various Armed Services committees. Warner once said, "We do not try to pull surprises on each other. The security of the nation and the welfare of the armed services come first."Stay tuned to American Grit for more news, stories and updates. Read also: Senator Wicker says China's navy will be twice the size of ours by 2030