John Murtha was elected from a district which had suffered economic devastation after coal mining and steel industries there had faced a decline and strived to set up new insdustries there. Serving 19 terms, he was revered by both Democrats and Republicans and was counted as one of the most influential lawmakers. He was also a right hand man for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

The democrat was controversial for congressional "earmarking" that is, giving no bid contracts to projects and companies he chose, Many a times, John Murtha was questioned on possible ethical conflicts as those earmarked by him, were often his campaign contributers. But, he remained unapologetic about it, saying that he did all he could to create more jobs.