Columbia, Md. — Dan Rupli, a fervent progressive champion and committed advocate for civil rights, has died due to complications from a fall and dementia at the age of 82. Known for his relentless pursuit of political and social justice, Rupli’s career spanned several decades, featuring stints as a U.S. congressional candidate, a legal adviser, and a participant in President Bill Clinton’s trade missions.
Rupli’s political endeavors began in earnest in 1976 when he challenged incumbent Rep. Goodloe Byron in Maryland’s 6th Congressional District. Representing a more liberal stance against Byron, a conservative Democrat, Rupli narrowly lost in the primary and again in 1978, solidifying his persistent presence in the political landscape.
Throughout his career, Rupli was influential in numerous campaigns, notably serving as the Maryland coordinator for Sen. Tom Harkin’s 1992 presidential bid. His connections and loyalty to his political colleagues were long-lasting, contributing to campaigns as recently as 2004 for Sen. John Kerry and 2006 for Sen. Kweisi Mfume, among others.
Sen. Mfume commented on Rupli’s character, describing him as “one of the most principled political people” he’s ever known. His commitment was noted across the board, with Sen. Chris Van Hollen expressing gratitude for Rupli’s advocacy, which encouraged him to successfully run for Congress in 2002.
Despite his numerous campaigns, Rupli faced challenging races, such as his 2014 bid for the State Senate in a predominantly conservative area of Frederick County, Maryland, where he only captured 32% of the vote. In his final electoral attempt in 2022, Rupli entered the race for an open congressional seat but failed to gain significant traction.
Beyond his political career, Rupli served as an attorney in the U.S. Justice Department in the 1970s, enforcing the Voting Rights Act in the South before transitioning to private law practice. His legal acumen was also put to international use when he was appointed as a trade representative to China in the 1990s by then-Governor Parris Glendening.
Born on February 23, 1943, in Chicago and raised in Silver Spring, Maryland, Rupli’s upbringing in a mid-western family shaped his views and ambitions. He completed his higher education in Maryland, earning a degree in history from the University of Maryland College Park and a juris doctor from the University of Baltimore in 1969.
His retirement years were spent in Columbia, Maryland, where he focused on various causes including gun control, affordable housing, and engaging young people in politics. He generously offered advice and counsel to many up-and-coming politicians and remained active in his community.
Rupli’s legacy is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, a daughter, and his children and grandchildren from his first marriage. His family and friends remember him not only for his sharp political insight but also for his undying commitment to the ideals of fairness, justice, and change.
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