A Representative from South Carolina, this member was born on November 1, 1942, in Charlotte, North Carolina. They graduated from York High School in York, South Carolina, in 1960, before earning an A.B. from Davidson College in Davidson, North Carolina, in 1964. Furthering their education, they received an M.A. as a Marshall Scholar from Corpus Christi College, Oxford University, in 1966, followed by a J.D. from Yale Law School in 1969. Serving in the United States Army from 1969 to 1971, they transitioned to a career as a lawyer, banker, and business owner.

Throughout their political career, the member has been active within the Democratic Party, serving as a delegate to the South Carolina State Democratic Convention from 1972 to 1980 and as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 1964. They were elected to the United States Congress as a Democrat in 1982, serving in the House for 13 consecutive terms until January 3, 2011. During the One Hundred Tenth and One Hundred Eleventh Congresses, they held the position of Chair of the Committee on the Budget.

Following their congressional tenure, they contested unsuccessfully for reelection to the One Hundred Twelfth Congress in 2010. The member passed away on December 14, 2024, in York, South Carolina, and was interred at Rock Hill Cemetery in York.

The member's legislative track record reflects a commitment to fiscal management, social equity, and public service, central tenets of their Democratic Party affiliation. Many of the bills they sponsored and co-sponsored aimed at enhancing economic opportunity, improving public education, and ensuring access to healthcare. The focus on budgetary control during their chairmanship of the Budget Committee underscores their expertise and prioritization of financial responsibility in government.

In summary, this member of Congress played a significant role in the legislative processes that shaped the financial and social landscape of their era, with a noteworthy focus on equitable resource distribution and fostering community development. Their educational background, military service, and extensive political experience informed their contributions to public service in South Carolina and the nation.