Atlanta's John Lewis Makes Time's 100 Most Influential List

ATLANTA, GA -- A penchant for "good trouble" has led Atlanta Congressman John Lewis to be named one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential people of 2017. The list, which features leaders, artists, titans, pioneers and icons, was announced Thursday.

Lewis is listed in the "Icon" category, an appropriate moniker for someone who has dedicated most of his 77 years to facing batons, bullets and, as a legislator, ballots to champion the rights of Americans.

The Troy, Alabama native represents Georgia's Fifth Congressional District based in Atlanta, He was one of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s key lieutenants during the civil rights struggle of the 1960s.

Lewis has overcome personal attacks and threats against his life since he has been in the public eye. Early last month, an Atlanta man was arrested for allegedly calling Lewis' office more than 40 times and threatening to "blow your head off." Lewis made headlines in January when President Trump criticized him for not attending his inauguration. In the wake of the incident, a Gwinnett commissioner called Lewis a "racist pig."

Read more: Commissioner on Lewis Comments: I Apologize For 'Choice Of Words'

Lewis has received numerous awards and accolades in his life, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor. See the rest of Time's 100 list here.

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