Richard Ottinger, a Peace Corps pioneer and eight-term U.S. Representative from New York, died Feb. 16, 2026. He was 97.
Born into a prominent New York family, Ottinger attended Cornell University and Harvard Law School before serving as a captain in the U.S. Air Force. He was the second staff member hired by the Peace Corps, where he directed programs across South America during the early 1960s. This experience preceded his first election to the House of Representatives in 1964.
During his time in Washington, the politician focused on environmental protection and energy policy. He represented Westchester County during two distinct periods, first from 1965 to 1971 and again from 1975 to 1985. Between these terms, he sought a seat in the U.S. Senate but later returned to the House to lead the Subcommittee on Energy Conservation and Power.
After leaving elective office, Ottinger dedicated his time to legal education, serving as the dean of Pace Law School. He advocated for sustainable development and international environmental law well into his nineties. He remained a respected figure in New York legal circles until the end of his life.