Washington honors Alaska’s fiery, tireless defender in House

By KEVIN FREKING
Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congressional leaders are hailing Republican Rep. Don Young as a colorful but pragmatic lawmaker who got things done for his constituents. Young died on a flight to Alaska earlier this month at age 88. Former colleagues honored him Tuesday as he lay in state at the Capitol. While Young’s accomplishments were significant, he is also remembered for his sometimes gruff personality. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy says, “His absence will leave Congress less colorful … but his legacy will live on.” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi described Young as an institution who was a “dogged, determined champion for Alaska in the House.”