Nebraska Democratic Party: Peter Hoagland, 1941-2007

Peter Hoagland, 1941-2007

Oct 31, 08:46 AM CST

Former Nebraska Congressman and State Senator Peter Hoagland died yesterday in Washington, D.C.

Known for his intellect and love of a tough campaign, Hoagland was first elected to serve the 2nd Congressional District in 1988. He served three terms in Congress.

Prior to serving in Congress, he served eight years representing Omaha in the Nebraska Legislature.

A former Republican from a well-known Omaha family, Hoagland switched parties in 1974 following Watergate and what he said was a disaffection with the Nebraska GOP’s conservative turn. According to a story in today’s Omaha World Herald, Hoagland said “that he had always felt at home in the party that represented the ‘average Joe’.”

Funeral services are pending.

We are grateful that we were able to honor the Congressman with our Party’s Hall of Fame Award at the 2007 Morrison-Exon Dinner in June.

Please use this as a thread to share memories of Congressman Hoagland and his many years of public service to our state and nation.

– by Eric Fought | Send this to a friend

Peter Hoagland was the first politician I ever met. He was walking my neighborhood when I was about 12. We talked about politics and what government was. After he left my driveway, I knew I was a democrat. I always refer to that talk as my significant political moment.
— Lisa Wise Oct 31, 11:07 AM CST #
While I never met Peter Hoagland, I also never heard a fowl word about him. Republicans or Democrats.

In the political world that is very hard to do.

May he rest in peace.
— Mike Nellis Oct 31, 06:15 PM CST #
Mr Hoagland was a genuine force for good within the the state and the Nebraska Democratic Party. He was a friend of my grandfather, a Dawson County small town mayor, and benefactor for the common man.
— bryon line Nov 02, 06:30 AM CST #
I knew Peter through my affiliation with the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. He was an entirely wonderful person. He was a tireless advocate not only for the people of his district but for the nation. He was a great comfort to me when my mother passed away in 1993. During that time he called me every day to see if I was OK and to talk as long as I needed to. He helped me get through a very difficult time and I will remember that always.
— Genie Norris Nov 03, 02:47 PM CST #