CMU speaker series focuses on integrity in politics

 

Stupak’s speech was part of CMU’s Philip A. Hart and William G. Milliken Endowed Speaker Series for Integrity in Politics. The series is designed to challenge students to approach politics by stimulating positive change in the public policy arena.

 

Stupak told audience members he, like former U.S. Senator Hart and former Michigan Gov. Milliken, ran for office to do what was in the best interest of the country, not what they felt was politically popular. “Unfortunately, many elected officials say this while they are running for office, but things change once they are elected,” said Stupak. “They become more concerned with self-preservation than serving their country or their constituents.”

 

While in Congress, Stupak served on the Energy and Commerce Committee and as chairman of the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee. In 2010 he played an important role in passing the health care reform act amidst political backlash.

 

“I hope that the students here tonight who may be thinking about public service will realize that even with all the negativities surrounding politics today public service remains a noble profession,” said Stupak.