Like too many other politicians to mention, Democratic Rep. Henry Waxman ‘61, J.D. ‘64 has been described as “a driving force for change.” But Waxman’s got something most of the others do not: a real claim to that fame. This grandson of Russian immigrants is U.S. Representative for California’s 33rd congressional district (which includes UCLA) and a fearless–and feared–watchdog on some of Congress’ most powerful committees. He has served in Washington since 1975 and fought relentlessly for universal health insurance, tobacco regulation, air and water quality, pesticides regulation, prescription drugs legislation, reproductive rights and more. Millions of Americans are healthier, safer and breathe cleaner air today because of the man The Nation called “the Democrats’ Eliot Ness.”