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Harry Reid

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description Harry Reid Overview

Harry Reid was an American lawyer and Democratic politician who represented Nevada in the United States House of Representatives from 1983 to 1987 and in the United States Senate from 1987 to 2017. He served as Senate Democratic whip from 1999 to 2005, minority leader from 2005 to 2007 and 2015 to 2017, and Senate majority leader from 2007 to 2015. His career also included service as Nevada's lieutenant governor and chairman of the Nevada Gaming Commission.

help Harry Reid FAQ

How long did Harry Reid serve in Congress?

Harry Reid represented Nevada in the U.S. House from 1983 to 1987 and in the Senate from 1987 to 2017. He retired in January 2017 after three decades on Capitol Hill.

Was Harry Reid ever Senate Majority Leader?

Yes. He served as Senate Democratic whip from 1999 to 2005, as Minority Leader from 2005 to 2007, and as Majority Leader from 2007 to 2015. He then served as Minority Leader again until his retirement in 2017.

What was the 'nuclear option' Harry Reid used in the Senate?

In November 2013, Reid changed Senate precedent so that most presidential nominations could advance with a simple majority, ending routine filibusters on them (Supreme Court nominees excepted). Republicans later extended the change to Supreme Court nominations in 2017 under Mitch McConnell.

What did Harry Reid die of?

Reid died on December 28, 2021, at age 82 from pancreatic cancer, which he had disclosed in 2018. He had also suffered serious injuries earlier in life, including from an exercise accident in 2015.