Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : Former DFL congressman Rick Nolan, known as a “champion for the Northland,” has passed away at the age of 80 in Minneapolis. Born in Brainerd, Nolan represented the 8th Congressional District from 2013 to 2019, marking a successful political career that began with serving as an assistant to then-U.S. Senator Walter Mondale.
After a stint in the Minnesota House, Nolan was elected to represent the 6th Congressional District in the mid-70s before stepping away from politics in 1981. During his time away, he worked in the sawmill and pallet factory business, as well as in export trading. However, he made a political comeback in 2012 by reclaiming the 8th Congressional District seat from Republican Chip Cravaack. Despite facing tough competition, Nolan was re-elected twice.
In 2018, he ran as the running mate for gubernatorial candidate Lori Swanson, but they were unsuccessful in the primary. DFL Chairman Ken Martin praised Nolan for his dedication to protecting working people from corporate interests, while Sen. Amy Klobuchar remembered him as an incredible friend and a true outdoorsman.
Nolan’s passing has left a void in the political landscape of Minnesota, with many remembering him fondly for his commitment to public service. His legacy as a tireless advocate for the Northland and working-class Americans will be remembered for years to come.
For more updates and news, stay tuned to CBS News for the latest developments.
Rick Nolan, who represented Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District, dies at 80
Who was Rick Nolan and what was his political career like?
Rick Nolan, the former DFL congressman known as a “champion for the Northland,” passed away at the age of 80. Born in Brainerd, he represented the 8th Congressional District from 2013 to 2019. Nolan’s political journey began as an assistant to then-U.S. Senator Walter Mondale, followed by a term in the Minnesota House before being elected to represent the 6th Congressional District in the mid-70s. He took a break from politics in 1981, working in the sawmill and pallet factory business, and the export trading business before making a comeback in 2012 by reclaiming the 8th Congressional District seat from Republican Chip Cravaack.
What were some key moments in Nolan’s political career?
Nolan was re-elected twice, narrowly defeating Republican challenger Stewart Mills in what was considered one of the most expensive campaigns in the country at the time. He also ran as a running mate for gubernatorial candidate Lori Swanson, though they lost in the 2018 primary.
How was Nolan remembered by his colleagues and the public?
DFL Chairman Ken Martin described Nolan as a champion for the Northland who fought fiercely to protect working people from corporate interests. He was praised for embodying the DFL creed that “we all do better when we all do better.” Senator Amy Klobuchar called Nolan an incredible friend, highlighting his resilience and commitment to his roots. Both Martin and Klobuchar expressed their condolences to Nolan’s family.
What impact did Nolan have on his community?
Nolan’s legacy as a dedicated public servant and advocate for the Northland left a lasting impact on his community. From Ely to Duluth, he was known for his unwavering support for working-class individuals and his dedication to improving the lives of those he represented.
Where can I find more information about Rick Nolan’s life and career?
You can read more about Rick Nolan’s life and political career in the CBS News article that covers his contributions to Minnesota politics and his lasting impact on the Northland community.