Jerry Costello

Jerry Costello is a former U.S. Representative who served Illinois's 12th congressional district from 1988 until 2013. A member of the Democratic Party, Costello was known for his long tenure in Congress, during which he held various committee assignments and was involved in significant legislative efforts. He concluded his congressional career as the most senior member of Illinois's House delegation and opted not to seek re-election in 2012.

Early life and career

Jerry Costello was born on September 25, 1949, in East St. Louis, Illinois. He received his early education in Catholic schools, culminating in his graduation from Assumption High School. Following high school, Costello attended Maryville College of the Sacred Heart in St. Louis, where he earned a bachelor's degree. This educational background laid a foundation for his future career in public service.

Before entering politics, Costello worked in law enforcement and the judicial system. He served as a court bailiff and deputy sheriff in St. Clair County, Illinois. His career progressed as he took on the role of director of court services and probation, and later became the chief investigator for the Illinois State Attorney’s office. His experience in these positions provided him with insights into the workings of the legal system and public safety.

In 1980, Costello was elected as the chair of the St. Clair County Board, a position he held until his election to the U.S. House of Representatives. His tenure as county executive allowed him to gain valuable experience in governance and local issues, which he would later bring to the national stage.

House tenure

Costello's congressional career began in August 1988 when he won a special election to fill the seat left vacant by the passing of Melvin Price. He secured this position with 51% of the vote. Later that same year, he was elected to a full term in the House, receiving 53% of the vote in the general election. Throughout his time in office, Costello consistently garnered substantial support from his constituents, achieving at least 60% of the vote in subsequent re-election campaigns.

During his final term, Costello held the distinction of being the most senior member of Illinois's congressional delegation. In October 2011, he announced that he would not seek re-election in 2012, marking the end of a 13-term career in the House. He was succeeded by William Enyart, who was elected in November 2012.

Costello's tenure in the House was marked by his involvement in various legislative initiatives and committee assignments. He played a role in the National Leadership Committee of then-Senator Barack Obama's National Catholic Advisory Council during Obama's 2008 presidential campaign. Following Obama's election as President, Costello was mentioned as a potential candidate for the Secretary of Transportation position, although the nomination ultimately went to fellow Illinois Representative Ray LaHood.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his time in Congress, Costello served on several important committees, which shaped his legislative focus. He was a member of the Committee on Science, Space and Technology, where he contributed to discussions and decisions regarding scientific research and technological advancements. Within this committee, he was part of the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment, which dealt with issues related to energy policy and environmental protection.

In addition to his work on the Science, Space and Technology Committee, Costello was also a member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. This committee is crucial for overseeing the nation's transportation systems and infrastructure projects. Within this committee, he served as the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Aviation, where he addressed issues related to air travel and aviation safety. He was also involved in the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials, as well as the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, which focused on water management and environmental concerns.

Costello's legislative record includes co-sponsoring HR 3, the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act, which aimed to limit the circumstances under which public funds could be used for abortion services. His involvement in this legislation reflects his engagement with social issues and his alignment with certain positions within the Democratic Party.

Costello's career was not without controversy. In 1996, he was named an unindicted co-conspirator in a federal investigation regarding a riverboat casino project. Although he testified before a grand jury and was not charged, the incident led to an ethics complaint being filed against him in 1997. The complaint, however, did not result in any formal action.

After leaving Congress, Costello remained active in public service. In 2016, he served as a presidential elector from Illinois. He was also slated to be an elector in the 2020 election, but was replaced by Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch in the official vote.

Jerry Costello's long career in the U.S. House of Representatives is characterized by his commitment to public service, his involvement in various legislative committees, and his engagement with both local and national issues. His contributions to the legislative process and his role as a senior member of Illinois's congressional delegation reflect a significant period of service in American politics.