Bedrooms in 'Makeover' house
Exterior of 'Makeover' house
Interior of 'Makeover' house
Area loses most vocal supporter with Hobson's retirement
Related: Photos | Hobson announces retirement | Comment on this
Monday, October 15, 2007
WASHINGTON — Rep. David Hobson's announcement Sunday that he would retire from the U.S. House of Representatives will leave the Dayton-Springfield region without its most vocal supporter on the House Appropriations Committee as well as one of the most powerful advocates for Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
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"I'm really surprised," said Sen. George Voinovich, R-Ohio, about Hobson's decision. "He really gets a kick out of putting stuff together and working hard and figuring out ways to help Ohio...he's a congressman with a lot of power but he doesn't just use it for his own district. He uses it for the entire state."
Hobson, R-Springfield, a real estate investor by trade, brought that businessman's acumen to the House. He garnered earmarks for NextEdge Technology Park between Springfield and Dayton, which he hoped would revitalize the region's economy and for Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and its supporting contractors. He also pushed for projects as wide-ranging as geothermal heating for the Springfield Equestrian Center to the cleanup of the former Mound Department of Energy site.
His lobbying for federal funds for his region occasionally earned him criticism. David Williams, vice president of Citizens Against Government Waste, a group that opposes congressional earmarks, called him "a premier porker for Ohio" back in 2005.
But Hobson has argued that federal money was better spent by lawmakers who knew their communities' needs than federal bureaucrats.
"I don't think there's been anyone in our lifetime who has brought so much back to Dayton," said J.P. Nauseef of the Dayton Development Coalition, adding that the support was not just financial.
During the 2005 base realignment and closure process, Hobson was a regular presence at meetings of the independent commission weighing which bases to close.
Before some hearings, he'd go up to individual members of the panel, pressing into their hands a list of reasons why they should preserve missions both at Wright-Patterson and at his beloved Springfield Air National Guard base.
When the latter lost its F-16 training mission during that BRAC round, Hobson then helped secure a deal with the Royal Netherlands Air Force to train Dutch pilots to fly F-16s in Springfield, thus ensuring that the base would continue to be used for flights.
House Minority Leader John Boehner, R-West Chester Twp., said some of Hobson's best work in Congress was done for Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
"Dave is a true champion for Wright-Pat and all of the men and women who work at the Base and in industries impacted by it, and without a doubt, this work will be a lasting part of his legacy," he said.
Rep. Mike Turner, R-Centerville, meanwhile, called him "a great mentor to me."
"His presence in Washington will be missed by the community," he said.
Known by colleagues as "Uncle Dave" – a moniker attached to him by former U.S. Rep. John Kasich, Hobson also was unafraid of picking fights with the Bush administration. As the former chairman of the House Appropriations Committee's subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, he is credited with single-handedly eliminating funding for a nuclear "bunker-buster" weapon, arguing such a weapon would send the wrong message to other countries.
His seniority afforded him a candor rare on Capitol Hill. Last week, he was quoted in a Capitol Hill publication as criticizing President Bush for being "really out of touch" on a bill expanding the State Children's Health Insurance Program. Hobson criticized a 2002 farm bill that he said was filled with excessive spending, and said it was "too little, too late" for Bush to be a fiscal conservative now.
Affable and well-liked by members on both sides of the aisle, Hobson was able to use his close relationships with Democrats to his benefit as a member of the minority. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., invited him to be the lone Republican on a series of congressional delegation trips earlier this year, including a controversial trip to Syria that was lambasted by Hobson's fellow Republicans. Hobson is also close to Rep. Jack Murtha, D-Pa., the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee's Defense subcommittee. And his close working relationship with Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Ind., helped minimize the impact when he moved from the chairman of the Appropriations Committee's subcommittee on energy and water development to the ranking member this year.
Speculation on his political future has ebbed and flowed, but this year wasn't the first year that Hobson considered retirement. In 2000, he edged so close to a decision to leave that he sold his Alexandria condominium. But then he became chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and he decided to stay.
This year, he seemed to waiver between wanting to leave and feeling as if he was still being effective in the minority.
"I don't feel any real change," he said earlier this year when asked about the difference between being in the majority and the minority. "When I call somebody, they still answer the phone. And they still call me Uncle Dave."
Still, he acknowledged then, "it's a lot more fun to be in the majority."
Rep. David L. Hobson:
Born Oct. 17, 1937 in Cincinnati
Education: Withrow High School, Cincinnati, Ohio 1954; B.A., Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio, 1958; J.D., Ohio State College of Law, Columbus, 1963;
Military Service: Ohio Air National Guard, 1958-1963;
Political career: Member of the Ohio state senate, 1982-1990, president pro tempore, 1988-1990; Ohio's Seventh Congressional District: 1991 to present.
Family: Wife Carolyn, three children, six grandchildren
Comments
By Brian
October 16, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this
As a registered Democrat I voted for and very much appreciate what he did for the 7th district. He did not spout off at the mouth like what we have now in Champaign County. (Jim Jordan)
By Sarah
October 16, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this
I agree that Wickham is the logical choice. Is there a difference between the donkeys and elephants? They promise different things, but deliver the same. We need an independent, thinker like David Wickham; not a Hobson Mini-Me.
By Suzi
October 16, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
I have been a Registered Dem for more than 35 yrs. The only Repub Vote that I have ever voted was for Dave Hobson. He has came to my aid in several problems. I highly respect the man not the party. All the people in his district better pray that who ever comes in after Mr Hobson that he will be half the man as Dave.
By steven
October 16, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this
Finally he is leaving. Good riddance to bad rubbish.
By Evan
October 16, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this
Will a total wealth tax at 4% raise sufficient funds, as Mr. Wickham theorizes? As a conceptual matter I can see the benefits to us all of taxing wealth instead of income, especially at a flat rate. It would allow the average man whose earnings come from labor to pay for basic needs and to accumulate wealth without interference from the tax system. How does a draft of Mr. Wickham work?
By Birdman
October 16, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this
To David Kissinger:
Just to let you know, Tim Schaffer was at Dave Hobson’s retirement announcement on Sunday. Do you really think Dave Hobson would invite a potential primary opponent to Steve Austria? Tim is supporting Steve, so I would hope that you would too.
By Phil
October 16, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this
Tt seems to me that the only real choice is to draft David Wickham, the political theorist. Fortunately, Mr. Wickham maintains a residence in Mr. Hobson’s district. He is primarily known for his proposal to make the U.S. tax system a system that taxes accumulated wealth and not income. He estimates that this can be done with a flat 2% to 4% tax on accumulated wealth. However, if Mr. Wickham can be convinced to rum it is likely that he would chose to do so as an Independent.
By SOLDIER
October 16, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this
Dave Hobson will be missed by republicans and democrats alike. He fought very hard for our military men and women! His seat is still safely republican, but we need to make the right choice in the March 2008 primary.
Steve Austria is a pompous Beavercreek yuppie who fights for the civilians working on base, but he has no great vision for the region. We need John Mitchel, a REAL military man who understands the needs of our armed forces!
By Andy B
October 16, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this
People need to be more objective in their support of Hobson. While he may have brought money to the district for special projects, have these dollars improved the overall success of the district? The 7th has had the worst job losses, lowest test scores and one of the highest foreclosure rates of any district in Ohio. What about his “selfless acts”? He posted a press release raving of the positive impact creating an FTZ at Rickenbacher, the day after he bought property on the site.
By Christine
October 16, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this
I usually vote on party lines, but I have always voted for Mr. Hobson. Mr. Hobson, has always stood up for our Veterans, especially when my grandfather, needed assistance with getting health care. When I wanted someone to listen about his situation, or anyother situation regarding social services Mr. Hobson made time to listen. He may not of voted on issues the way I wanted him to, but he did take time to meet with me. I hope whoever takes his seat will take time to listen! Thank you!
By Jim5
October 16, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this
The Bush-demonizers really cannot pass up an opportunity to practice their paranoia. What happened to the charge by the Democrats that free speech was being quashed in the name of national security? It appears to be alive and well.
By David Kissinger
October 16, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this
By David Kissinger
October 16, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this
By greg
October 16, 2007 8:31 AM | Link to this
I am a lifelong Republican. I never voted for Hobson because he did not vote according to the Republican party principles of not killing children in the womb. He was a fence sitter because he always protected abortion rights but withheld, at least openly, tax dollars. He was a wishy washy protector of human life in its most innocent and vulnerable condition.
By Luwanna Delaney
October 16, 2007 8:23 AM | Link to this
The general public can critize but they will not know what they had in Washington until he leaves and is no longer assiting our district. He has done a lot for the Miami Valley and individuals unknown to the general public. We will miss his sense of humor,faithfulness and dedication to serve. We offer him the best of health and happiness in whatever he decides to do with his political career. God Bless and thanks !.
By Barbara
October 16, 2007 8:05 AM | Link to this
What am I going to do with outyou.? My son is on his 3rd tour of duty. You have always been so helpful. Truly a man who cares about his people. Thank you so very much. Barb
By Barbara
October 16, 2007 8:05 AM | Link to this
What am I going to do with out. My son is on his 3rd tour of duty. You have always been so helpful. Truly a man who cares about his people. Thank you so very much. Barb
By Steve Castle
October 16, 2007 6:49 AM | Link to this
I will always remember how helpful congressman Hobson was to me and the village of Mechanicsburg in 1999. I was seeking federal assisstance to purchase an EMS ambulance for our community and it was his congressional influence that secured funding for this worthy cause. Thank you Mr. David Hobson. Steve Castle (Former Mechanicsburg EMS Cheif).
By Brenda
October 15, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this
Dave Hobson has done a tremendous job for Springfield. He is definitely for the hometeam. Dave has continually worked hard for this community and its people. Dave, you and your family should be very proud. You deserve to retire and do some things you have always wanted to do. Let me add, I am a die-hard Dem.
By Ann Cooke
October 15, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this
Oh Taylor, you are SO wrong it’s funny. David has always won by huge margins. His constituents know he’s the real thing REGARDLESS of his party. He’s immune to the “Democrat backlash.” He would just keep getting re-elected however long he wanted to keep the office.
By susannah
October 15, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this
i think that anyone who is over the age of 70 should think about retirement. you have been a good one we will miss you.
By America
October 15, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this
Thanks for your service,Mr Hobson.
By D. Greene
October 15, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this
I liked Hobson. His Congressional office helped us deal with a stubborn federal agency that wouldn’t give us what we needed.
That said, Steve Austria is a well-coiffed empty suit who probably spends more time primping in front of the mirror than thinking through his policy ideas. Luckily for him, if his opposition is the guy that ran against Hobson last time, the laughable socialist Bill Conner, then sadly Steve Austria has nothing to worry about.
By David
October 15, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this
David Hobson was an ethical, savy, pro-Springfield politician who thought things through. His major weakness was his unwavering support for a president with two major flaws. 1) Iraq war 2) Not caring about health care. I only wish David H. would have stood up to Bush rather than endorse his failed policies for America. Having said that, Hopson was an honest,hard working, representative.
By Taylor
October 15, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this
He was going to get voted out anyway. He saw the writing on the wall.
By Scott
October 15, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this
Frank,
I see your point, but one who has been involved in politics for a long time realizes that firing them all and starting over will not work.
The one thing you can’t say about Dave Hobson’s approach is that his earmarks were for the betterment of the community as a whole. NextEdge Park would not have happened w/o Dave Hobson’s earmarks. The Springfield airbase would not have stayed open w/o Hobson earmarks. There are countless other earmarks that Hobson did to improve the community.
By Frank Enstein
October 15, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this
It is a politician’s role to rake money in for his area, of course since it is his area he will stand to make some personal gain as well. Hobson like ALL members of congress has done his share of earmarking. Unfortunately the education system and reforms for health care and many IMPORTANT issues fell to the side. It’s not just Hobson it is the total failure of our elected officials as a whole. I say fire them all and start over.
By Sandee Mc Laughlin
October 15, 2007 9:41 AM | Link to this
i’m sorry to hear of your plans to retire. While the young need their chance, they also need the wisdom and experience of the older ones around to guide and direct them IF they are wise enough to listen. You were often the only PERSON I voted for in some elections because I felt I could trust you and was not sure of other candidates. May God keep His hand on you!
By cohobill
October 15, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this
Foster, money does not make people learn, teachers and parents do. Make teachers and parents more responsible for educating their children and you will not need more money. Typical Dems and libs answer to everything, take more money from people to give to government to waste. Most people are poor for a reason, they choose to be that way. As children and as young adults, every person has the same rights and because some choose drugs, alcohol, and crime, don’t make me pay for it.
By Jeff
October 15, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this
Captain Crunch:
Before you jump on the republicans read the story on 60 Minutes how it was the under the Democrats’ watch that the domestic spying started. This all started with the Echelon Program:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2000/02/24/60minutes/main164651.shtml
Hate repbulicans if you must, but get the whole story.
By Doug
October 15, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this
Wow Captain…republican=unamerican? Please say that to Abe Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan. Being involved and understanding the workings of the political process is truely American democrat or republican. The only Unamericans are those here illegally, and those that have no understanding of the process but complain nonetheless.
By Jim5
October 15, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this
Thank You Mr. Hobson. Your talents will be missed very much. Although, I am not in your district, you did this area a great service. Enjoy your retirement.
By captain crunch
October 15, 2007 8:18 AM | Link to this
“Seething hatred of republicans?” No, how about a seething hatred for those ignoring the Constitution, Bill of Rights and Declaration of Independence?
I have no love toward those responsible for supporting the reckless endangerment of my son’s life- sending our Ohio National Guard off to die in a country which in no way threatened the United States?
Why not a seething hatred for those supporting spying on American citizens without warrant AND doing it BEFORE 911? Republican=UnAmerican
By Keith Hoffman
October 15, 2007 6:54 AM | Link to this
Dave Hobson has been the ideal Congressman IMHO regardless if you agree with his views or not. He considered every issue and voted his views. He did the best he could for his district. He worked to form bipartisan alliances to make America a better place.
By bob
October 15, 2007 4:38 AM | Link to this
HE DID A GREAT JOB. GOOD LUCK IN THE FUTURE. POND SCUM IS A MENTALLY ILL PERSON WITH ABOUT 100 OTHER NAMES AND E-MAILS ADDRESS. GET HELP MY FRIEND.
By Jim
October 15, 2007 3:07 AM | Link to this
Why is it considered a good thing to raid the U. S. treasury of money we are borrowing from the Chinese to pay for pork for this area ???
By Bye Bye Pond Scum
October 15, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this
See you in hell Hobson!
Took care of all your fat cat friends in your district but didn’t do a damn thing for anybody else.
ADIOS POND SCUM
By Wow
October 14, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this
Don’t let the door hit you on the way out.
By Mark
October 14, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this
I am sad that he (Mr. Hobson) is leaving, but I’m happy that he will have more time with his family. He’s given back many fold to Ohio in general, and he represents the phrase “Man of the People” in the greatest degree. Thank you Mr. Hobson, and well done!
By Sharon
October 14, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this
Thank you Mr Hobson for all your efforts in doing the job that the people elected you to do. Not all are sad to see you go, but you will be missed. Enjoy your
retirement and God bless you. People put politics aside and admit Dave is good people. God Bless the USA.
By Ann Cooke
October 14, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this
Dave, say it isn’t so! We’ve had Republican congressmen in this district since before I was born. You’ve done SO MUCH for your constituents here. I’m so afraid the next person won’t be the same…. At least we do have a year to try to find someone who will try to fill your footsteps.
You do surely deserve your retirement!
Best wishes to you and Carolyn. We look forward to seeing you both around town, enjoying yourselves and hopefully relaxing!
By rj
October 14, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this
For all the partisan hacks that’ve posted. Can we stop the vitriol. It’s all so pointless. All of the Republicans will still have the very same problems whether Hillary gets elected or the Republican does. Same for the Democrats.
Wake up, you’re being used and abused by the own party you support. Why don’t you do the country a favor and look at both parties as corrupt snots that want to feed off of you. If you did, we’d actually have better and more responsible politicians. Imagine that…
By Tim
October 14, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this
They think the country is screwed up just wait and see what happens if another clinton gets in it will be screwed up forever
By Julie
October 14, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this
I’m sorry to see you go Mr. Hobson. I guess I’ll have to vote straight ticket for the Democrats now. You are the only Republican that I ever voted for. Although I am a democrat you were there for me when I needed help. Thank you for a job well done.
By jim
October 14, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this
To: JLK, No, what is sad is people who post the same comment more than once.
By UNKNOWN
October 14, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this
As a Democrat I am even sad to see him go…He has done a lot for the area and he will be missed
By JLK
October 14, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this
It’s sad to read the posts of those folks who seethe with hatred of Republicans
By jim
October 14, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this
YES!!!!! It looks like a lot of republicans are getting out now they have screwed up this country. 11 in the House. 3 in Ohio alone. About time.
By foster
October 14, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this
Too bad he didn’t retire three years ago. Just think, if the money he EAR MARKED three years ago to relocate North Street for a hospital, had been EAR MARKED for education. Maybe, the students in springfields city schools would be able to pass the states tests. Only those with something to gain from the construction of the hospital, want it built anyway. IF there had been a public vote, as there should have been. There probably would be no further thought of a new hospital.
By Mary Ann
October 14, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this
You deserve time with your family now. Enjoy your retirement, but you will be missed. Thank you for everything you have done while in office.
By Evelyn Neal
October 14, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this
I am sorry to hear of your retirement. You have been great for this area. I was a teacher at North High School when your daughter was there. Enjoy your retirement.
By Evelyn Neal
October 14, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this
I am sorry to hear of your retirement. You have been great for this area. I was a teacher at North High School when your daughter was there. Enjoy your retirement.
By Timothy G Bayless
October 14, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this
Good Ridance!!!!