Arlen Specter Dead at 82

politics, World News | admin | October 15, 2012 at 8:00 pm

Arlen Specter Pennsylvania Senator Dead at 82: The irritable Pennsylvania senator who had recently switched back to being a democrat, Arlen Specter died this Sunday morning. Arlen Specter lost a battle to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in Philadelphia. He was 82.

Specter’s son Shanin reported that his father had previously fought with Hodgkin’s disease and heart problems – in the past Arlen had remarkably survived a brain tumor and a cardiac bypass surgery. Specter is known for his tenacity and centrist attitude in politics. His hard-edge style will be missed by many.

In 1951 Arlen Specter started off as a Democrat, but later in 1965 his Republic self started to unveil – he joined the United States public and became a Republican for almost four decades. Only in year 2009 Arlen Specter gave up his seat to become a Democrat again; he died as a Democrat also.

Arlen Specter’s death rekindled many memories of the senator; he was remembered in dear words by his colleagues and fans alike. Ed Rendell, Former Governor, said he remembered Arlen as a colleague, mentor and a political institution in totality; he added that Arlen was like his boss.

President Barack Obama also spoke kind words for the departed politician. He said that Specter was a fighter, and he was fiercely independent. He mentioned his contributions as Senator when he ‘stamped out corruption’ in the state.

Former United States President George W Bush also added that Specter was a great lover of the country and served with utmost integrity. Vice President of the United States, Joe Biden also said that Specter lived his life the way he intended to and did so with great dignity and courage.

Others who spoke kind words for Arlen Specter include Rick Santorum, Jim Burn and Bob Casey.

Arlen Specter was born on February 12, 1930 in Wichita, Kansas. Specter studied at University of Oklahoma and later transferred to University of Pennsylvania.