Benjamin Louis Cardin, commonly known as Ben Cardin, is an American lawyer and former politician who served as a United States Senator from Maryland from 2007 to 2025. A member of the Democratic Party, he previously represented Maryland's 3rd congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1987 to 2007 and served in the Maryland House of Delegates from 1967 to 1987, including as Speaker from 1979 to 1987. A third-generation Marylander born in Baltimore, Cardin built a long career in public service spanning 58 years without ever losing an election. He has been a national leader on issues such as health care, retirement security, environmental protection, and fiscal policy, and chaired the Senate Small Business Committee during his Senate tenure. Cardin also served as Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, notably signing off on significant defense contracts, such as an $8.6 billion Boeing deal for F-15 jets to Israel in coordination with House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Gregory Meeks. His political career began after earning his law degree, focusing on progressive policies and bipartisan collaboration. He collaborated professionally and maintained political ties with fellow Maryland Democrat Steny Hoyer. Throughout his tenure, Cardin emphasized Maryland's interests, particularly in economic development and international relations. Retiring from the Senate in 2025 at age 81, Cardin's legacy includes advocacy for small businesses, environmental safeguards, and strong U.S. alliances, earning widespread respect within Maryland's political circles.