Paul Wellstone

Paul Wellstone was a Democratic politician from Minnesota. He served as a senator from 1991 until his death in 2002.Official Site: Wellstone, Paul David

He was known for his staunchly liberal positions, highlighted by his opposition to the 2002 resolution authorizing the Iraq War.The New York Times: Minnesota Crash Kills Wellstone, Clouding Fight Over Senate (October 25, 2002)

In July 2008, Congress passed a law forcing insurance companies to consider mental health issues, including addiction, in the same way they evaluate physical ailments.Star-Tribune (Minneapolis, MN): House Approval Is Historic Moment for Wellstone's Addiction and Treatment Crusade (March 5, 2008)

The bill was named after Paul Wellstone, who had spent much of his time in the Senate fighting for such legislation.Star-Tribune (Minneapolis, MN): House Approval Is Historic Moment for Wellstone's Addiction and Treatment Crusade (March 5, 2008)

At the time of his death, Wellstone was in the midst of one of the most hotly-contested senatorial campaigns of the election season. After his death, with only 11 days until the election, the Democratic Party of Minnesota nominated Walter Mondale as the replacement candidate. Mondale lost to Republican Norm Coleman.The New York Times: Minnesota Crash Kills Wellstone, Clouding Fight Over Senate (October 25, 2002)

Though no evidence of foul play has been uncovered, some have suggested that the plane crash that killed Wellstone and seven other people deserves a closer investigation.AlterNet: Was Paul Wellstone Murdered? (October 28, 2002)