Bud Shuster (1932–2023), longtime U.S. Rep. from Pennsylvania

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Bud Shuster was a Republican who represented Pennsylvania’s 9^th district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1973 to 2001.  

• Died: April 19, 2023 (Who else died on April 19?) 
• Details of death: Died at his home in Everett, Pennsylvania of complications from a broken hip at the age of 91. 
• We invite you to share condolences for Bud Shuster in our Guest Book. 

Bud Shuster’s legacy 

Shuster ran for the U.S. House of Representatives as a newcomer to politics in 1972. He beat the Republican incumbent in the primary and was easily elected to Congress in a strongly Republican district. During his decades in the House, Shuster became known for championing transportation and infrastructure projects, especially the construction of Interstate 99 in Pennsylvania. He chaired the House Transportation Committee in the 1990s, and his work on transportation earned him the nickname “King of Asphalt.” However, Shuster also opposed some auto-related laws, including the requirement that cars be equipped with airbags.  

Shuster’s years in office came to an abrupt and surprising end in 2001, when he resigned almost immediately after being sworn in for a 15^th term. He said several health scares had led him to the decision. Shuster’s seat in the House was filled by his son, Bill Shuster, after a special election. In later years, he served as Visiting Assistant Professor of Political Science at Pennsylvania’s Saint Francis University. 

Notable quote 

“I’m not a big spender, but I believe deeply in spending where we should spend money: to build assets to build America. And the money is there to do it.” —from a 1997 interview, as quoted by The Washington Post  

Tributes to Bud Shuster 

Rest in Peace, my friend and former colleague Bud Shuster, an extraordinary public servant. A transportation legend to his constituents and the entire nation. My deepest condolences to my friend Rep. Bill Shuster his son, and the entire family.

— Lincoln Diaz-Balart (@LincolnDBalart) April 20, 2023

My statement on the passing of Chairman Bud Shuster. pic.twitter.com/EeD3iEhv22

— John Joyce, M.D. (@RepJohnJoyce) April 19, 2023

Bud Shuster spent decades bringing resources back to the Commonwealth. His leadership on the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee built I-99 in Central PA. My condolences are with Congressman Bill Shuster and the entire Shuster family as they mourn his passing.

— Senator Bob Casey (@SenBobCasey) April 19, 2023

Michele and I were sad to learn of the passing of Bud Shuster. Bud was a good friend and a fierce advocate for his constituents – and for all of Pennsylvania. His time as chair of the transportation committee resulted in huge infrastructure improvements in PA. He will be missed.

— Gov. Tom Ridge (@GovRidge) April 19, 2023

Bud Shuster was a driving force in the building of America’s infrastructure. He was also a gentleman who was a role model for many of us in the infrastructure space. I will miss the winks he would give me and calling me “young man”. RIP https://t.co/Xx9hrFAanx

— Ed Mortimer (@Edmortimer1) April 19, 2023

The highway system in Heaven just got a whole lot better. Bud Shuster was a legend. His accomplishments in Congress are well known but Bud was a successful businessman, a leader in his community, and a loving father and dad. We’ll miss you Mr. Chairman. https://t.co/MCSgahLVjc

— Ray Zaborney (@raythemaverick) April 19, 2023

Full obituary: Altoona Mirror