1.3.1956

New Congressman Dingell is sworn in.  Dingell weeps on his first day in Congress after members eulogize his father.  The Detroit News reported, "In a choked voice, the lean, bespectacled son thanked the members for their tributes to the only man to represent the Fifteenth Congressional District. 'My father loved and respected the House and all its members,' he said. 'If I can be half the man my father was, I shall feel I am a great success.' Then he buried his face in his hands, and the House passed on to other business."(Detroit News, 1.4.56)

Dingell later says that his mother and sister were in the gallery for the eulogy and that it is the most memorable day on the House floor for him. (John D. Dingell)

Dingell is appointed to the Public Works Committee and Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee.  (Polish Weekly, New Jersey, 1.26.56)

11.6.1956

Dingell elected to his 2nd term, which will be his first full term, with 74% of the vote over Larry Middleton.  Vote results: 111,827 – 38,973.  

Eisenhower defeats Stevenson in the Presidential election.