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Rostenkowski Became Symbol of Power and Excesses
CHICAGO (AP) -- Those who knew the late Dan Rostenkowski are recalling a meat-and potatoes Illinois politician from an era when leaders crossed party lines to cut deals and seek consensus.

Rostenkowski died Wednesday of lung cancer at age 82.

He quietly wielded enormous power on Capitol Hill for more than 30 years, becoming one of the most powerful lawmakers of his time. He also became a potent symbol of Washington's excesses after he pleaded guilty to corruption charges.

Illinois Democratic Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky called Rosteknowski "a big D Democrat," but noted he was "always able to work across the aisle to get things done."

Rostenkowski was credited with pushing through a sweeping 1986 overhaul of the nation's tax system.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
08 12 10 by Newsroom
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