A Storied Career Ends, But the Journey Continues
After nearly six decades in politics, Senator Ben Cardin of Maryland has officially announced his departure from the U.S. Senate. But as the 80-year-old Democrat bids farewell to his Senate seat, he makes it clear that his career in politics is far from over. His time in the Senate may be ending, but for Cardin, it’s simply a “goodbye for now,” not a final farewell.
Throughout December, Cardin embarked on a farewell tour across Maryland, visiting local communities, meeting with leaders and advocates, and offering his final speech on the Senate floor. His farewell was marked with a sense of reflection, pride, and gratitude for the decades of public service that defined his career.
“I’m proud of what I’ve been able to accomplish,” Cardin said during a recent interview. “It’s been a long journey, I’ve been very fortunate. People really trusted me over the years.” Indeed, 18 elections later, the Maryland senator has left an indelible mark on both state and national politics.
A Legacy Built Over Decades
Born in Baltimore on October 5, 1943, Ben Cardin began his political career early. He made his first foray into public service at the age of 23 when he was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates while still attending law school. This marked the beginning of a long political journey that would span nearly 60 years.
For two decades, Cardin served in the Maryland House, eventually becoming the Speaker of the House. He looks back on those years with pride, seeing his role as Speaker as one of the most significant achievements of his career. “The Speaker can really do a lot,” Cardin remarked in an interview, reflecting on his time as a leader of the House. “It’s an honor and an opportunity. You’re selected by your peers because they know you best.”
Cardin’s rise continued with his election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1986. He filled the seat left vacant by Barbara Mikulski, who became the first female U.S. senator from Maryland. As a congressman, Cardin worked on numerous legislative efforts, including a bipartisan bill aimed at expanding retirement programs and advocating for children’s dental care within federal health programs.
But his career reached new heights in 2006 when he was elected to the U.S. Senate, succeeding Paul Sarbanes, who had served for three decades. Cardin’s time in the Senate saw him rise to the chairmanship of several committees, including the Small Business Committee and, more recently, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
Key Achievements in the Senate
One of Cardin’s signature legislative achievements was the passage of the Magnitsky Act, a law that allows the U.S. to impose sanctions on foreign officials implicated in human rights abuses. This law stands as a key part of Cardin’s legacy, emphasizing his commitment to global human rights and democracy.
Cardin’s role as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee also stands out. Following the resignation of Senator Robert Menendez due to a federal indictment, Cardin assumed the committee’s top position and played a critical role in shaping U.S. foreign policy, including strengthening ties with international allies and pushing for sanctions against corrupt foreign officials.
“Being United States senator is one of the most unique experiences in the world,” Cardin said. “And to be a part of that Senate family is truly unique.”
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Cardin?
While Cardin has left the Senate, he insists that he’s not retiring from politics altogether. After 58 years in public service, Cardin is unsure about his next steps, but his message to Marylanders is clear: he’s not done fighting for the causes he believes in.
Though he won’t be seeking reelection, Cardin’s departure doesn’t mark the end of his influence in Maryland or in the larger political landscape. His legacy, built on a foundation of bipartisan cooperation and public service, leaves him well-positioned to continue playing a role in shaping policy, even if that role doesn’t involve a seat in the Senate.
“I’ve been in office for 58 years. It’s been a long, fortunate journey,” Cardin remarked. “I’ve had the opportunity to help people and make a real impact. But there’s more to be done.”
For now, the veteran senator is focused on completing his farewell tour and tying up loose ends. But for those who’ve followed his career, it’s clear that Ben Cardin’s influence in Maryland politics will continue for years to come, even if he steps out of the spotlight.
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