Ron Wyden's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Ron Wyden.

Ron Wyden is the senior U.S. Senator from Oregon since 1996 and previously served in the House of Representatives starting in 1981. A Democrat, he is known for his libertarian-leaning views and advocacy for civil liberties, particularly regarding privacy rights and internet freedom. As ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee, Wyden has been a vocal critic of government surveillance and a champion for limiting its scope. He is considered a key figure in debates surrounding technology and individual rights in the digital age.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1965: Medicare Creation

In November 2003, Wyden supported the Bush Medicare bill, touted as "the biggest expansion of Medicare since its creation in 1965."

1971: Received Bachelor of Arts

In 1971, Ron Wyden received his Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Stanford University.

1974: Received Juris Doctor Degree

In 1974, Ron Wyden received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Oregon School of Law.

1980: Elected to US House of Representatives

In 1980, Ron Wyden was elected to the United States House of Representatives for Oregon's 3rd congressional district, defeating incumbent Bob Duncan in the Democratic primary and Republican Darrell Conger in the general election.

1981: Served in the House of Representatives

In 1981, Ron Wyden began serving in the United States House of Representatives, a position he held until 1996.

January 1996: Wyden Defeats Smith in Special Election

In January 1996, Ron Wyden defeated Gordon Smith in a special election to fill a Senate seat.

1996: Influential Role in Section 230 Passage

In 1996, Ron Wyden played an influential role in the passage of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act.

1996: Elected as Senator

In 1996, Ron Wyden was elected as the senior United States senator from Oregon. He has held this seat since then.

1998: Elected to Full Senate Term

In 1998, Ron Wyden was elected to a full Senate term with 61% of the vote.

2004: Re-elected to Senate

In 2004, Ron Wyden was reelected to the Senate, receiving 64% of the vote against Republican nominee Al King who received 31%.

December 2010: Voted for the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010

In December 2010, despite undergoing tests in advance of prostate surgery, Ron Wyden appeared in the Senate chamber to vote for the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010.

2010: Re-elected to Senate

In 2010, Ron Wyden was re-elected to the Senate, receiving 57% of the vote against Jim Huffman who received 39%.

January 2012: Called Postponement of PROTECT IP Act a "grassroots victory"

In January 2012, after Senate leadership postponed the bill indefinitely due to widespread protests, Ron Wyden called it a "grassroots victory for the history books" due to his role in fighting against SOPA and PIPA. The Daily Dot later named Wyden one of the top ten most influential activists of 2012.