POTOMAC, MD. – Former House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Jim Oberstar, 79, (D-MN), died unexpectedly
May 3, 2014, at his home in Potomac, Md. Oberstar was a strong advocate of aviation, whether for airport development, safety improvements or funding. He fought vigorously against “user fees.” Oberstar served 18 consecutive terms as the representative for northeastern Minnesota before losing to Republican Chip Cravaack in the 2010 election. A family statement indicated that Oberstar died in his sleep, but did not give a cause.