Adam Benjamin

Democrat Representative of Indiana's 1st district

Congresses Served

House Terms

January 1, 1935 (47 years old)

Birthday

January 1, 1982

Death

Served as a United States Representative from Indiana’s 1st congressional district from 1977 until his death in 1982.
First Assyrian-American elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.
Held prior positions in the Indiana Senate (1971-1977) and Indiana House of Representatives (1967-1971).
Worked on significant legislation, including a new code of ethics for legislators and court reform in Lake County.
Chaired the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, focusing on infrastructure improvements in Northwest Indiana.
Actively promoted the domestic steel industry as chair of the Congressional Steel Caucus.
Established the Calumet Forum to foster economic recovery in the Calumet Region.
Known for his dedication, effectiveness, and loyalty among colleagues and constituents.
Retained his congressional seat in the 1978 and 1980 elections.
Died from a heart attack while in office, seeking a fourth term at the time of his death.
Honored posthumously with the naming of the Adam Benjamin Metro Center and a Veterans Affairs clinic in his name.