David Bonior Papers

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David Bonior (June 6, 1945 -) was a Michigan State Representative from 1973-76, and a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1976-2002, serving as Democratic Whip from 1991-2002. Bonior was born in Detroit and raised in Hamtramck. He received his BA at University of Iowa and his MA at Chapman University. After college he worked as a probation officer in Detroit before volunteering four years in the Air Force from 1968-72. Upon returning he was elected to the Michigan legislature, and in 1976 was elected to the U.S. House. He was well known for his advocacy of minority rights, environmental concerns, working people’s rights, and Vietnam veterans. He was elected Democratic Whip in 1991, and was the longest Whip in the history of Congress. He left Congress in an unsuccessful bid for Governor of Michigan in 2001-02 where he ran against former Governor Jim Blanchard, and Attorney General Jennifer Granholm. His campaign centered around environmental concerns, minority rights, and the economy. Following his gubernatorial campaign, Bonior taught Labor Studies at Wayne State University and chaired the American Rights at Work program.

Part I of the Bonior Papers include documents relating to his activities in the 10th and 12th Congressional districts of Michigan during his years in Congress, as well as his run for Governor. The collection focuses mainly on Michigan issues, particularly social, labor, and environmental. Bonior’s biographical information, district schedules and participation in events are included in the administrative series. A large portion of the collection centers around his bi-yearly campaigns and includes campaign literature, mailings, events, research, and polling and surveys of his congressional district. Also included are newspaper clippings, newsletters and press releases.

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