Introduction
William Lester "Bill" Armstrong (March 16, 1937 – July 5, 2016) was an American businessman and politician. He was a member of the Republican party and served as a United States Representative and Senator from Colorado.
Early life
Armstrong was born in Fremont, Nebraska, and graduated from Lincoln Northeast High School. After attending Tulane University and the University of Minnesota without receiving a degree, he served in the United States National Guard from 1957 to 1963. By the early 1960s, Armstrong owned radio stations in Colorado.
Career
In 1963 and 1964, Armstrong served in the Colorado House of Representatives. He then served in the Colorado State Senate from 1964 to 1972. In 1972, Armstrong was elected a United States Representative to the 93rd Congress. He was reelected to the 94th and 95th Congresses (January 3, 1973 – January 3, 1979). In 1978, Armstrong was elected to the United States Senate, defeating Democratic incumbent Floyd K. Haskell. He was reelected in 1984 and served from January 3, 1979, to January 3, 1991. While serving in the United States Senate, Armstrong was the chairman of the Republican Policy Committee (99th through 101st Congresses). Armstrong opted to retire and did not seek reelection in 1990.
Armstrong was President of Colorado Christian University at the time of his death, having served in that position since 2006. He was on the Board of Directors for Campus Crusade for Christ.
Armstrong became well known for his catchphrase "Jesus, Jesus, Jesus".
Armstrong died on July 5, 2016 from cancer at the age of 79.