For 22 continuous years, Rep. James Langevin has represented Rhode Island in Washington with steady calmness and determination.

His rise to the halls of Congress is a story of perseverance, and his impact on politics can not only be seen in the votes he was party to, bills he sponsored and co-sponsored, or committees he has chaired or been a part of — it can also be seen in ways wholly intangible to those who have never had to wrestle with something as challenging as a physical disability.

Imagine the feeling that a young child confined to a wheelchair might receive upon seeing Rep. Langevin deliver a speech from the halls of Congress, physically embodying the classic

American ideal that you can accomplish anything, despite all odds, if you work to achieve that goal. Political ideals aside, this symbol has undoubtedly served as inspiration for many aspiring young Americans who face any number of difficulties.

Langevin’s legacy can also be seen physically in the adjustments that were required to enable him to access and deliver speeches from the Capitol.

ADAimprovements were made so that Langevin, the first quadriplegic to serve in Congress, could do his job.

Due to his trailblazing, even an institution as historic and traditional as the U.S. government needed to adapt and evolve, contributing to positive progress for generations that will comeafter him.

There are plenty of cynical thinkers who lump all politicians into the same category — entitled, self-serving, greedy opportunists who care more about grabbing power and absorbing taxpayer dollars for their own good than any one common cause. But we find it hard to believe that Rep.

Langevin, someone who has championed the rights of disabled citizens, the uninsured, and the nation’s military veterans, can be so easily judged and dismissed. Spending so much of one’s life dedicated to trying to make things better for other people should not be callously tossed aside in the name of serving a cynical world view about our imperfect political system. Indeed, the legacy of Langevin is one of a truly American success story. It is a story of promise that took a tragic turn at just 16 years old while on a path to become a law enforcement officer, only to be able to successfully pivot into a political career that, after more than two decades, has left his colleagues with nothing but positive things to say about his service.

While you may disagree or agree with individual votes or his stance on certain issues, the country needs more politicians of Langevin’s breed, and whoever successfully climbs the ladder to his seat should try mightily to embody the spirit of his service.