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{{Multiple issues|
{{tone|date=December 2013}}
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{{POV|date=December 2013}}
}}
{{Infobox officeholder
{{Infobox officeholder
|name = Marty Oberman
| name = Marty Oberman
|image = Marty_Oberman.jpg
| image = Marty_Oberman.jpg
|caption = Official portrait, 2019
| caption = Official portrait, 2019
|alt =
| alt =
|nationality =
| nationality =
|office1 = Chair of the [[Surface Transportation Board]]
| office1 = Chair of the [[Surface Transportation Board]]
|president1 = [[Joe Biden]]
| president1 = [[Joe Biden]]
|term_start1 = January 21, 2021
| term_start1 = January 21, 2021
|term_end1 =
| term_end1 = May 10, 2024
|predecessor1 = Ann Begeman<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://prod.stb.gov/about-stb/board-members/|title=Surface Transportation Board}}</ref>
| predecessor1 = Ann Begeman<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://prod.stb.gov/about-stb/board-members/|title=Surface Transportation Board}}</ref>
| successor1 = [[Robert E. Primus]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=President Biden Designates Robert E. Primus as STB Chairman |url=https://www.stb.gov/news-communications/latest-news/pr-24-25/ |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=Surface Transportation Board |language=en}}</ref>
|successor1 =
|office2 = Vice Chair of the [[Surface Transportation Board]]
| office2 = Vice Chair of the [[Surface Transportation Board]]
|president2 = [[Donald Trump]]
| president2 = [[Donald Trump]]
|term_start2 = January 22, 2019
| term_start2 = January 22, 2019
|term_end2 = January 21, 2021
| term_end2 = January 21, 2021
|predecessor2 = [[Deb Miller]]
| predecessor2 = [[Deb Miller]]
|successor2 = Robert Primus<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://prod.stb.gov/about-stb/board-members/|title=Surface Transportation Board}}</ref>
| successor2 = Robert E. Primus<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://prod.stb.gov/about-stb/board-members/|title=Surface Transportation Board}}</ref>
|office3 = Member of the [[Surface Transportation Board]]
| office3 = Member of the [[Surface Transportation Board]]
|president3 = [[Donald Trump]]<br/>[[Joe Biden]]
| president3 = [[Donald Trump]]<br/>[[Joe Biden]]
|term_start3 = January 22, 2019
| term_start3 = January 22, 2019
| term_end3 = May 10, 2024
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|office4 = Member of the [[Chicago City Council]]<br/>from the 43rd ward
| predecessor3 = Daniel R. Elliott III
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|term_start4 = {{start date|1975}}
| office4 = Chairman of [[Metra]]
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|term_end4 = {{end date|1987}}
| term_start4 = February 11, 2014
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|predecessor4 = [[William Singer]]
| term_end4 = November 1, 2016
|successor4 = [[Edwin Eisendrath]]
| predecessor4 = Brad O’Halloran<ref>{{cite web |title=Metra board poised to name new chairman |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2014/02/09/metra-board-poised-to-name-new-chairman/ |website=Chicago Tribune |access-date=1 March 2024 |date=9 February 2014}}</ref>
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|birth_name =
| successor4 = Norm Carlson<ref>{{cite web |last1=Dorfman |first1=Daniel I. |title=Lake Forest resident retiring from Metra board |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2022/11/29/lake-forest-resident-retiring-from-metra-board/ |website=Chicago Tribune |access-date=1 March 2024 |date=29 November 2022}}</ref>
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|birth_date = {{birth date and age|1945|04|23}}
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| office5 = Member of the [[Chicago City Council]]<br/>from the 43rd ward
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|birth_place = [[Springfield, Illinois|Springfield]], [[Illinois]], U.S.
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| term_start5 = {{start date|1975}}
|death_date =
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| term_end5 = {{end date|1987}}
|death_place =
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| predecessor5 = [[William Singer]]
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|restingplace =
|party = [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democratic]]
| successor5 = [[Edwin Eisendrath]]
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| birth_name =
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|otherparty = <!--For additional political affiliations-->
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| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1945|04|23}}
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|spouse = Bonnie Oberman <!--{{marriage|Bonnie Oberman|19XX}}-->
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| birth_place = [[Springfield, Illinois|Springfield]], [[Illinois]], U.S.
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|partner = <!--For those with a domestic partner and not married-->
|relations =
| death_date =
|children = 2
| death_place =
⚫
| restingplace =
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|residence = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], U.S.
| party = [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democratic]]
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|alma_mater = [[Yale University]] ([[Bachelor of Arts|BA]])<br>[[University of Wisconsin–Madison]] ([[Juris Doctor|JD]])
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| otherparty = <!--For additional political affiliations-->
⚫
|occupation =
⚫
| spouse = Bonnie Oberman <!--{{marriage|Bonnie Oberman|19XX}}-->
⚫
|profession =
⚫
| partner = <!--For those with a domestic partner and not married-->
⚫
|committees =
|signature =
| relations =
| children = 2
⚫
|signature_alt=
⚫
| residence = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], U.S.
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|website =
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| alma_mater = [[Yale University]] ([[Bachelor of Arts|BA]])<br>[[University of Wisconsin–Madison]] ([[Juris Doctor|JD]])
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|footnotes =
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| occupation =
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| profession =
⚫
| committees =
| signature =
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| signature_alt =
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| website =
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| footnotes =
| successor3 = ''vacant''
}}
}}
'''Martin J. Oberman''' (April 23, 1945) is an American government official and attorney who has served as a member of the [[Surface Transportation Board]] (STB) since 2019 and as STB chair since 2021. Born Martin Jay Oberman, he previously served as the chair of the board of directors at [[Metra]], the [[Chicago]] commuter rail system.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Wanek-Libman |first=Mischa |date=2018-07-06 |title=Oberman nominated for STB slot |url=https://www.rtands.com/regulatory/oberman-nominated-for-stb-slot/ |access-date=2022-12-23 |website=Railway Track and Structures |language=en-US}}</ref>
'''Martin Jay Oberman''' (April 23, 1945) is an American government official and attorney who served as a member of the [[Surface Transportation Board]] (STB) from 2019 to 2024 and as STB chair from 2021 to 2024. He previously served as the chair of the board of directors at [[Metra]], the [[Chicago]] commuter rail system.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Wanek-Libman |first=Mischa |date=2018-07-06 |title=Oberman nominated for STB slot |url=https://www.rtands.com/regulatory/oberman-nominated-for-stb-slot/ |access-date=2022-12-23 |website=Railway Track and Structures |language=en-US}}</ref>


Oberman was a [[Chicago City Council|Chicago City Councilman]], representing the 43rd Ward from 1975 to 1987. During his tenure, he earned a reputation as a reform leader, committed to promoting transparency in key governing processes while also working to reduce government corruption and profligate spending.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Board Members |url=https://www.stb.gov/about-stb/board-members/ |access-date=2024-02-22 |website=Surface Transportation Board |language=en}}</ref>
Oberman was a [[Chicago City Council|Chicago City Councilman]], representing the 43rd Ward from 1975 to 1987. During his tenure, he earned a reputation as a reform leader, committed to promoting transparency in key governing processes while also working to reduce government corruption and profligate spending.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Board Members |url=https://www.stb.gov/about-stb/board-members/ |access-date=2024-02-22 |website=Surface Transportation Board |language=en}}</ref>
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He was an unsuccessful candidate for [[Illinois Attorney General]] in the [[1982 Illinois Attorney General election|1982]], [[1986 Illinois Attorney General election|1986]] and [[1994 Illinois Attorney General election|1994]] elections.

⚫
He was an unsuccessful candidate for [[Illinois Attorney General]] in the 1981, 1986, and 1994 elections.


==Early life and education==
==Early life and education==
Oberman's grandfather, Harry W. Oberman (March 25, 1888 – October 2, 1945), was born in [[Russia]] and immigrated to the United States in 1906.<ref>{{Cite news |date=October 2, 1945 |title=Illinois State Journal VOL. 114: OFFERS PLAN TO END STRIKE |volume=114 |page=8 |work=Illinois State Journal |location=Springfield |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-14B057020FE32A26%402431731-14AAC917F6C29A86%407-14AAC917F6C29A86?clipid=dcxknvoxzosgcuncoyyteeeoloxbpapb_ip-10-166-46-149_1696538970862 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=Harry Oberman (...) died at 5. a. m. yesterday (...) Mr. Oberman was born March 25, 1888, in Russia and came to the United States in 1906. He entered the junk business a few years later and (...) became owner of the grocery store.}}</ref> Harry moved to [[Springfield, Illinois|Springfield]], [[Illinois]], where he married Oberman's grandmother Ida Oberman (''nee Graonick'') on June 20, 1909,<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |date=June 21, 1909 |title=The Illinois State Journal VOL. 78: LEADING INCIDENTS IN CHINESE MISSION MURDER |volume=78 |page=6 |work=The Illinois State Journal |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-13DB23A4EA57F322%402418479-13D8D87633011031%405-13D8D87633011031?clipid=cgwtlgusgsjbiilimrnqdlkjucvovlix_ip-10-166-46-156_1696537795978 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=Oberman-Graonick--Married, at 5 o'clock Sunday afternoon, June 20, 1909, at the Synagogue of the Congregation of B'Nal Abraham (...) Harry W. Oberman and Miss Ida Graonick...}}</ref> and opened a grocery store.
Oberman's grandfather, Harry W. Oberman (March 25, 1888 – October 2, 1945), was born in [[Russia]] and immigrated to the United States in 1906.<ref>{{Cite news |date=October 2, 1945 |title=Illinois State Journal VOL. 114: OFFERS PLAN TO END STRIKE |volume=114 |page=8 |work=Illinois State Journal |location=Springfield |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-14B057020FE32A26%402431731-14AAC917F6C29A86%407-14AAC917F6C29A86?clipid=dcxknvoxzosgcuncoyyteeeoloxbpapb_ip-10-166-46-149_1696538970862 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=Harry Oberman (...) died at 5. a. m. yesterday (...) Mr. Oberman was born March 25, 1888, in Russia and came to the United States in 1906. He entered the junk business a few years later and (...) became owner of the grocery store.}}</ref> Harry moved to [[Springfield, Illinois|Springfield]], [[Illinois]], where he married Oberman's grandmother Ida Oberman (''nee Graonick'') on June 20, 1909,<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |date=June 21, 1909 |title=The Illinois State Journal VOL. 78: LEADING INCIDENTS IN CHINESE MISSION MURDER |volume=78 |page=6 |work=The Illinois State Journal |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-13DB23A4EA57F322%402418479-13D8D87633011031%405-13D8D87633011031?clipid=cgwtlgusgsjbiilimrnqdlkjucvovlix_ip-10-166-46-156_1696537795978 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=Oberman-Graonick--Married, at 5 o'clock Sunday afternoon, June 20, 1909, at the Synagogue of the Congregation of B'Nal Abraham (...) Harry W. Oberman and Miss Ida Graonick...}}</ref> and opened a grocery store.


Oberman's father, M. D. "Mush" Oberman, born Morris Davis Oberman, married Oberman's mother, Sophia Oberman (''nee Friedman''), on October 8, 1939.<ref>{{Cite news |date=October 9, 1939 |title=Illinois State Journal VOL. 108: SOVIET-GERMAN PACT TO BE PUSHED |volume=108 |page=13 |work=Illinois State Journal |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-14ABD976D7ABDEAE%402429546-14AAC5060181E88C%4012-14AAC5060181E88C?clipid=qperqxhpiybgcbhxivydhxkqpyqlvncw_ip-10-166-46-87_1696540063436 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=Miss Sophia Gertrude Freidman, (...) became the bride of Morris David Oberman (...) yesterday.}}</ref> M. D. was active in Springfield community affairs, as well as being a supporter and organizer in the [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican Party]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=November 6, 1963 |title=Illinois State Journal VOL. 132, NO. 303: SOVIETS LET CONVOY PASS |volume=132 |page=5 |work=Illinois State Journal |issue=303 |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-1526586484732EC9%402438340-15250E67EC34633F%404-15250E67EC34633F?clipid=lgabgtlsvzvxrhigyipqhgrpttqtblzr_ip-10-166-46-149_1696530651878 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=M. D. (Mush) Oberman, (...) who is heading a drive for Howarth for the Republican nomination for secretary of state...}}</ref> Both Oberman's father and his grandfather were active in their local [[Jews|Jewish]] community, especially within the B'nai Abraham and B'nai B'rith [[Synagogue|synagogues]].<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=September 5, 1948 |title=Illinois State Journal and Register: SETS WORLD SPEED RECORD |page=6 |work=Illinois State Journal and Register |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-14CC123A1179D196%402432800-14CABAA482F4DD7A%405-14CABAA482F4DD7A?clipid=fzqaljnqedmobekwvvdhwmnwwsitoinz_ip-10-166-46-105_1696541007056 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=Installation of officers of the Emes Jodge, Bnai Brith of Springfield (...) The following were installed: (...) Morris D. Oberman, secretary...}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=June 10, 1948 |title=Illinois State Journal VOL. 117: SENATE DEBATES DRAFT BILL |volume=117 |page=12 |work=Illinois State Journal |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-14CC68221DC416FE%402432713-14CABB5FE3906922%4011-14CABB5FE3906922?clipid=povbfgsvicliyltigibpqozinzcmtsdo_ip-10-166-46-145_1696540507173 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=B'nai Abraham Elects Officers (...) Elected as members of the board of directors were (...) Morris Oberman....}}</ref>
Oberman's father, M. D. "Mush" Oberman, born Morris Davis Oberman, married Oberman's mother, Sophia Oberman (''nee Friedman''), on October 8, 1939.<ref>{{Cite news |date=October 9, 1939 |title=Illinois State Journal VOL. 108: SOVIET-GERMAN PACT TO BE PUSHED |volume=108 |page=13 |work=Illinois State Journal |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-14ABD976D7ABDEAE%402429546-14AAC5060181E88C%4012-14AAC5060181E88C?clipid=qperqxhpiybgcbhxivydhxkqpyqlvncw_ip-10-166-46-87_1696540063436 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=Miss Sophia Gertrude Freidman, (...) became the bride of Morris David Oberman (...) yesterday.}}</ref> M. D. was active in Springfield community affairs, as well as being a supporter and organizer in the [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican Party]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=November 6, 1963 |title=Illinois State Journal VOL. 132, NO. 303: SOVIETS LET CONVOY PASS |volume=132 |page=5 |work=Illinois State Journal |issue=303 |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-1526586484732EC9%402438340-15250E67EC34633F%404-15250E67EC34633F?clipid=lgabgtlsvzvxrhigyipqhgrpttqtblzr_ip-10-166-46-149_1696530651878 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=M. D. (Mush) Oberman, (...) who is heading a drive for Howarth for the Republican nomination for secretary of state...}}</ref> Both Oberman's father and his grandfather were active in their local [[Jews|Jewish]] community, especially within the B'nai Abraham and B'nai B'rith [[Synagogue|synagogues]].<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=September 5, 1948 |title=Illinois State Journal and Register: SETS WORLD SPEED RECORD |page=6 |work=Illinois State Journal and Register |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-14CC123A1179D196%402432800-14CABAA482F4DD7A%405-14CABAA482F4DD7A?clipid=fzqaljnqedmobekwvvdhwmnwwsitoinz_ip-10-166-46-105_1696541007056 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=Installation of officers of the Emes Jodge, Bnai Brith of Springfield (...) The following were installed: (...) Morris D. Oberman, secretary...}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=June 10, 1948 |title=Illinois State Journal VOL. 117: SENATE DEBATES DRAFT BILL |volume=117 |page=12 |work=Illinois State Journal |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-14CC68221DC416FE%402432713-14CABB5FE3906922%4011-14CABB5FE3906922?clipid=povbfgsvicliyltigibpqozinzcmtsdo_ip-10-166-46-145_1696540507173 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=B'nai Abraham Elects Officers (...) Elected as members of the board of directors were (...) Morris Oberman....}}</ref>


At the age of 13, Martin Oberman was appointed as a [[United States House of Representatives Page|page]] in the [[United States House of Representatives]].<ref name=":2">{{Cite news |date=January 8, 1959 |title=Illinois State Journal VOL. 128, NO. 49: POWELL WINS ON GOP SHIFT |language=English |volume=128 |page=3 |work=Illinois State Journal |issue=49 |location=Springfield |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-15286461013E51A4%402436577-1524C5B4819988DE%402-1524C5B4819988DE?clipid=adehjjlcjjwxeeyfxcbdtpzltxfnthhg_ip-10-166-46-149_1696528565461 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=Martin J. Oberman is serving as a page in the House of Representatives of the 86th Congress (...) he received his appointment while a superior honor student at Lawrence Junior High School. (...) Martin graduated from Culver Military Academy (...) and ranks in the top selection of his class in all subjects. |ref=Illinois State Journal Vol. 128, NO. 49}}</ref> Aside from the Capitol Page School, he attended Springfield's Butler Grade School, [[Springfield High School (Illinois)|Springfield High School]], and graduated valedictorian{{Citation needed|date=October 2023|reason=unable to locate any source that states he is valedictorian, only that he was in a "top selection" compared to his peers. either we find a citation or reword.}} from [[Culver Military Academy]] in 1962. <ref>{{Cite news |date=May 24, 1962 |title=Illinois State Journal VOL. 131, NO. 164: CARPENTER READY TO ORBIT |volume=131 |page=34 |work=Illinois State Journal |issue=164 |publication-place=Springfield |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-152B58FE19371D6B%402437809-1528C9B97148BD5E%4033-1528C9B97148BD5E?clipid=wvlmxncgqaqpauybrqwusznasfptszua_ip-10-166-46-86_1696529052413 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=...Martin Oberman, son of Mr. and Mrs. M. D. Oberman (...), will graduate from Culver Military Academy, (...) on June 5.}}</ref><ref name=":2" />
At the age of 13, Martin Oberman was appointed as a [[United States House of Representatives Page|page]] in the [[United States House of Representatives]].<ref name=":2">{{Cite news |date=January 8, 1959 |title=Illinois State Journal VOL. 128, NO. 49: POWELL WINS ON GOP SHIFT |language=English |volume=128 |page=3 |work=Illinois State Journal |issue=49 |location=Springfield |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-15286461013E51A4%402436577-1524C5B4819988DE%402-1524C5B4819988DE?clipid=adehjjlcjjwxeeyfxcbdtpzltxfnthhg_ip-10-166-46-149_1696528565461 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=Martin J. Oberman is serving as a page in the House of Representatives of the 86th Congress (...) he received his appointment while a superior honor student at Lawrence Junior High School. (...) Martin graduated from Culver Military Academy (...) and ranks in the top selection of his class in all subjects. |ref=Illinois State Journal Vol. 128, NO. 49}}</ref> Aside from the Capitol Page School, he attended Springfield's Butler Grade School, [[Springfield High School (Illinois)|Springfield High School]], and graduated valedictorian{{Citation needed|date=October 2023|reason=unable to locate any source that states he is valedictorian, only that he was in a "top selection" compared to his peers. either we find a citation or reword.}} from [[Culver Military Academy]] in 1962. <ref>{{Cite news |date=May 24, 1962 |title=Illinois State Journal VOL. 131, NO. 164: CARPENTER READY TO ORBIT |volume=131 |page=34 |work=Illinois State Journal |issue=164 |publication-place=Springfield |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-152B58FE19371D6B%402437809-1528C9B97148BD5E%4033-1528C9B97148BD5E?clipid=wvlmxncgqaqpauybrqwusznasfptszua_ip-10-166-46-86_1696529052413 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=...Martin Oberman, son of Mr. and Mrs. M. D. Oberman (...), will graduate from Culver Military Academy, (...) on June 5.}}</ref><ref name=":2" />


Oberman graduated from [[Yale University]] in 1966 with a [[Bachelor of Arts]]. During his time at Yale, he was a member of the freshman [[Yale Bulldogs|football team]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Alsene |first=Ed |date=October 5, 1962 |title=Illinois State Journal VO. 131, NO. 276: Quotes And Notes |volume=131 |page=31 |work=Illinois State Journal |issue=276 |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-152B7231788060E5%402437943-1528D0C44A1E86BB%4030-1528D0C44A1E86BB%40?search_terms=%22martin%2Boberman%22%2Byale&text=%22martin%20oberman%22%20yale&date_from=1939&date_to=1967&pub%255B0%255D=13D09C142C972071&pdate=1962-10-05 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=...Martin Oberman of Springfield is on the freshman football squad at Yale University...}}</ref> He then attended the [[University of Wisconsin Law School]], where he was a notes editor of the ''[[Wisconsin Law Review]]''. He graduated in 1969 with a [[Juris Doctor]] and [[Order of the Coif]] honors.<ref name=":0" />
Oberman graduated from [[Yale University]] in 1966 with a [[Bachelor of Arts]]. During his time at Yale, he was a member of the freshman [[Yale Bulldogs|football team]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Alsene |first=Ed |date=October 5, 1962 |title=Illinois State Journal VO. 131, NO. 276: Quotes And Notes |volume=131 |page=31 |work=Illinois State Journal |issue=276 |url=https://sj-r.newsbank.com/doc/image/v2%3A13D09C142C972071%40NGPA-ILSJR-152B7231788060E5%402437943-1528D0C44A1E86BB%4030-1528D0C44A1E86BB%40?search_terms=%22martin%2Boberman%22%2Byale&text=%22martin%20oberman%22%20yale&date_from=1939&date_to=1967&pub%255B0%255D=13D09C142C972071&pdate=1962-10-05 |url-access=subscription |access-date=October 5, 2023 |quote=...Martin Oberman of Springfield is on the freshman football squad at Yale University...}}</ref> He then attended the [[University of Wisconsin Law School]], where he was a notes editor for the ''[[Wisconsin Law Review]]''. He graduated in 1969 with a [[Juris Doctor]] and [[Order of the Coif]] honors.<ref name=":0" />


==Public service and politics==
==Public service and politics==


=== Early work ===
=== Early work ===
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{{POV section|date=May 2024}}
After nearly three years (1969–1972) as a lawyer with the Chicago firm of Leibman, Williams, Bennett, Baird, and Minow,{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}} Oberman became General Counsel to the Illinois Racing Board under [[Anthony Scariano]]. Oberman investigated and prosecuted various corrupt racing interests in License revocation proceedings for political payoffs, race-fixing and horse drugging.{{Citation needed|date=October 2023|reason=broad claims, no citation as proof. need citation}}
After nearly three years (1969–1972) as a lawyer with the Chicago firm of Leibman, Williams, Bennett, Baird, and Minow,{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}} Oberman became General Counsel to the Illinois Racing Board under [[Anthony Scariano]]. Oberman investigated and prosecuted various corrupt racing interests in License revocation proceedings for political payoffs, race-fixing and horse drugging.{{Citation needed|date=October 2023|reason=broad claims, no citation as proof. need citation}}


=== Chicago City Council ===
=== Chicago City Council ===
{{POV section|date=May 2024}}
In 1975, Oberman was elected Alderman from Chicago's 43rd Ward. He had an adversarial relationship with the Chicago City Council's political majority. In 1979 and again in 1983, he was reelected as Alderman.
In 1975, Oberman was elected Alderman from Chicago's 43rd Ward. He had an adversarial relationship with the Chicago City Council's political majority. In 1979 and again in 1983, he was reelected as Alderman.


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=== Subsequent career ===
=== Subsequent career ===
{{POV section|date=May 2024}}
After leaving the City Council, Oberman was appointed Chairman of the Shore Protection Commission, which was tasked with doing a complete rehabilitation of Chicago's shoreline to ensure environmental protection.
After leaving the City Council, Oberman was appointed Chairman of the Shore Protection Commission, which was tasked with doing a complete rehabilitation of Chicago's shoreline to ensure environmental protection.


Oberman ran for [[Illinois Attorney General]] in [[1982 Illinois elections#Attorney General|1982]] (in which he was not on the ballot), [[1986 Illinois elections#Attorney General|1986]], and again in [[1994 Illinois elections#Attorney General|1994]]. He did not win any of these campaigns.
Oberman ran for [[Illinois Attorney General]] in [[1982 Illinois Attorney General election|1982]] (in which he was not on the ballot), [[1986 Illinois Attorney General election|1986]], and again in [[1994 Illinois Attorney General election|1994]]. He did not win any of these campaigns.


In September 2014, Chicago mayor [[Rahm Emanuel]] named Oberman to the board of [[Metra]], Chicago's commuter rail system.<ref name="FormerAlderman1"/> He took his seat in November.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Franz |first1=Justin |title=Surface Transportation Board Chair Martin J. Oberman to Step Down |url=https://railfan.com/surface-transportation-board-chair-martin-j-oberman-to-step-down/ |website=Railfan & Railroad Magazine |access-date=1 March 2024 |language=en-CA |date=20 November 2023}}</ref> On February 11, 2014, the board unanimously voted to make him Metra chairman, a position he held until November 1, 2016.<ref name="FormerAlderman1">{{cite web |title=Former alderman picked as new Metra chairman |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2014/02/11/former-alderman-picked-as-new-metra-chairman-2/ |website=Chicago Tribune |access-date=1 March 2024 |date=11 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Martin J. Oberman, Chairman, Surface Transportation Board |url=https://www.railshippers.com/speaker/martin-j-oberman-chairman-surface-transportation-board/ |website=North American Rail Shippers Association (NARS) |access-date=1 March 2024}}</ref> His term at Metra was plagued with problems, including late trains <ref>{{Cite web |last=ABC30 |title=Metra elects new board chairman Martin Oberman, expects delays Tuesday {{!}} ABC30 Fresno {{!}} abc30.com |url=https://abc30.com/archive/9427616/ |access-date=2024-05-24 |website=ABC30 Fresno |language=en}}</ref> and train breakdowns, among other issues.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2014-09-05 |title=Critic dubs Metra's $1.3M tab for Clifford exit 'indefensible' |url=https://chicago.suntimes.com/2014/9/4/18413671/critic-dubs-metra-s-1-3m-tab-for-clifford-exit-indefensible |access-date=2024-05-24 |website=Chicago Sun-Times |language=en}}</ref> [https://www.trains.com/trn/news-reviews/news-wire/metra-chicago-suburbs-see-few-concerns-addressed-in-merger-decision/]
In November 2013, he took his seat on the board of [[Metra]], the Chicago commuter rail system, as Mayor [[Rahm Emanuel]]'s appointee.


On July 5, 2018, President [[Donald Trump]] announced he was seeking to appoint Oberman to the Democratic vacancy on the [[Surface Transportation Board|United States Surface Transportation Board]]. He was confirmed to the vacancy on January 3, 2019, by a voice vote in the United States Senate. In January 2019, he began a five-year term on the Surface Transportation Board. In January 2021, he was named the Chairman of the Board by President [[Joe Biden|Biden]].
On July 5, 2018, President [[Donald Trump]] announced he was seeking to appoint Oberman to the Democratic vacancy on the [[Surface Transportation Board|United States Surface Transportation Board]]. He was confirmed for the vacancy on January 3, 2019, by a voice vote in the United States Senate. In January 2019, he began a five-year term on the Surface Transportation Board. In January 2021, he was named Chairman of the Board by President [[Joe Biden|Biden]].


In the [[2019 Chicago mayoral election]], Oberman endorsed [[Lori Lightfoot]], publicly declaring his support of her candidacy in advance of the first round of the election.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://lightfootforchicago.com/press-release-former-clerk-david-orr-former-alds-dick-simpson-and-marty-oberman-endorse-lightfoot/|title=Former Clerk David Orr, Former Alds. Dick Simpson and Marty Oberman, endorse Lightfoot|date=February 20, 2019|format=Press release|website=Lightfoot for Chicago|accessdate=February 26, 2019|archive-date=February 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221224059/https://lightfootforchicago.com/press-release-former-clerk-david-orr-former-alds-dick-simpson-and-marty-oberman-endorse-lightfoot/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
In the [[2019 Chicago mayoral election]], Oberman endorsed [[Lori Lightfoot]], publicly declaring his support of her candidacy in advance of the first round of the election.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://lightfootforchicago.com/press-release-former-clerk-david-orr-former-alds-dick-simpson-and-marty-oberman-endorse-lightfoot/|title=Former Clerk David Orr, Former Alds. Dick Simpson and Marty Oberman, endorse Lightfoot|date=February 20, 2019|format=Press release|website=Lightfoot for Chicago|accessdate=February 26, 2019|archive-date=February 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221224059/https://lightfootforchicago.com/press-release-former-clerk-david-orr-former-alds-dick-simpson-and-marty-oberman-endorse-lightfoot/|url-status=dead}}</ref>


== Surface Transportation Board (STB) ==
== Surface Transportation Board (STB) ==
On July 5, 2018, President [[Donald Trump]] announced he was seeking to appoint Oberman to the Democratic vacancy on the [[Surface Transportation Board|United States Surface Transportation Board]]. He was confirmed to the vacancy on January 3, 2019, by a voice vote in the United States Senate. Following [[Joe Biden]]'s [[Inauguration of Joe Biden|inauguration as President]] in 2021, Oberman was chosen to serve as chair of the STB.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-01-21 |title=President Biden Designates Martin Oberman as Chairman of the Surface Transportation Board » Freight Rail Customer Alliance |url=https://railvoices.org/president-biden-designates-martin-oberman-as-chairman-of-the-surface-transportation-board/ |access-date=2023-02-10 |website=railvoices.org |language=en-US}}</ref>
He was confirmed for the vacancy on January 3, 2019, by a voice vote in the United States Senate. Following [[Joe Biden]]'s [[Inauguration of Joe Biden|inauguration as president]] in 2021, Oberman was chosen to serve as chair of the STB.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-01-21 |title=President Biden Designates Martin Oberman as Chairman of the Surface Transportation Board » Freight Rail Customer Alliance |url=https://railvoices.org/president-biden-designates-martin-oberman-as-chairman-of-the-surface-transportation-board/ |access-date=2023-02-10 |website=railvoices.org |language=en-US}}</ref>

Oberman retired in May 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-05-10 |title=STB Chairman Martin J. Oberman Retires |url=https://www.stb.gov/news-communications/latest-news/pr-24-24/ |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=Surface Transportation Board |language=en-US}}</ref>


==Family life==
==Family life==
Oberman lives in Chicago with his wife Bonnie Oberman, who was the Chicago Director of [[Facing History and Ourselves]].<ref>[http://www.facinghistory.org/news/community-conversation-with-marco-williams Community Conversation with Marco Williams | Facing History and Ourselves<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> He has been married to his wife, Bonnie, since 1971.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Board Members |url=https://www.stb.gov/about-stb/board-members/ |access-date=2024-02-22 |website=Surface Transportation Board |language=en}}</ref> He has 2 children, Justin and Maren.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Senate |url=https://www.commerce.senate.gov/services/files/77F69A68-224B-4CF7-B978-09A595E6C134 |access-date=May 5, 2023}}</ref>
Oberman lives in Chicago with his wife, Bonnie Oberman, who was the Chicago Director of [[Facing History and Ourselves]].<ref>[http://www.facinghistory.org/news/community-conversation-with-marco-williams Community Conversation with Marco Williams | Facing History and Ourselves<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 11:58, 8 September 2024

Marty Oberman
Official portrait, 2019
Chair of the Surface Transportation Board
In office
January 21, 2021 – May 10, 2024
PresidentJoe Biden
Preceded byAnn Begeman[1]
Succeeded byRobert E. Primus[2]
Vice Chair of the Surface Transportation Board
In office
January 22, 2019 – January 21, 2021
PresidentDonald Trump
Preceded byDeb Miller
Succeeded byRobert E. Primus[3]
Member of the Surface Transportation Board
In office
January 22, 2019 – May 10, 2024
PresidentDonald Trump
Joe Biden
Preceded byDaniel R. Elliott III
Succeeded byvacant
Chairman of Metra
In office
February 11, 2014 – November 1, 2016
Preceded byBrad O’Halloran[4]
Succeeded byNorm Carlson[5]
Member of the Chicago City Council
from the 43rd ward
In office
1975 (1975)–1987 (1987)
Preceded byWilliam Singer
Succeeded byEdwin Eisendrath
Personal details
Born (1945-04-23) April 23, 1945 (age 79)
Springfield, Illinois, U.S.
Political partyDemocratic
SpouseBonnie Oberman
Children2
Residence(s)Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Alma materYale University (BA)
University of Wisconsin–Madison (JD)

Martin Jay Oberman (April 23, 1945) is an American government official and attorney who served as a member of the Surface Transportation Board (STB) from 2019 to 2024 and as STB chair from 2021 to 2024. He previously served as the chair of the board of directors at Metra, the Chicago commuter rail system.[6]

Oberman was a Chicago City Councilman, representing the 43rd Ward from 1975 to 1987. During his tenure, he earned a reputation as a reform leader, committed to promoting transparency in key governing processes while also working to reduce government corruption and profligate spending.[7] He was an unsuccessful candidate for Illinois Attorney General in the 1982, 1986 and 1994 elections.

Early life and education

[edit]

Oberman's grandfather, Harry W. Oberman (March 25, 1888 – October 2, 1945), was born in Russia and immigrated to the United States in 1906.[8] Harry moved to Springfield, Illinois, where he married Oberman's grandmother Ida Oberman (nee Graonick) on June 20, 1909,[9] and opened a grocery store.

Oberman's father, M. D. "Mush" Oberman, born Morris Davis Oberman, married Oberman's mother, Sophia Oberman (nee Friedman), on October 8, 1939.[10] M. D. was active in Springfield community affairs, as well as being a supporter and organizer in the Republican Party.[11] Both Oberman's father and his grandfather were active in their local Jewish community, especially within the B'nai Abraham and B'nai B'rith synagogues.[9][12][13]

At the age of 13, Martin Oberman was appointed as a page in the United States House of Representatives.[14] Aside from the Capitol Page School, he attended Springfield's Butler Grade School, Springfield High School, and graduated valedictorian[citation needed] from Culver Military Academy in 1962. [15][14]

Oberman graduated from Yale University in 1966 with a Bachelor of Arts. During his time at Yale, he was a member of the freshman football team.[16] He then attended the University of Wisconsin Law School, where he was a notes editor for the Wisconsin Law Review. He graduated in 1969 with a Juris Doctor and Order of the Coif honors.[6]

Public service and politics

[edit]

Early work

[edit]

After nearly three years (1969–1972) as a lawyer with the Chicago firm of Leibman, Williams, Bennett, Baird, and Minow,[citation needed] Oberman became General Counsel to the Illinois Racing Board under Anthony Scariano. Oberman investigated and prosecuted various corrupt racing interests in License revocation proceedings for political payoffs, race-fixing and horse drugging.[citation needed]

Chicago City Council

[edit]

In 1975, Oberman was elected Alderman from Chicago's 43rd Ward. He had an adversarial relationship with the Chicago City Council's political majority. In 1979 and again in 1983, he was reelected as Alderman.

Oberman was a member of the minority independent bloc of aldermen. He had a reputation as a reformer, and kept himself distanced from the city's Democratic machine politics.[citation needed]

Oberman, along with fellow independent alderman Dick Simpson, was one of only two aldermen to vote against the resolution appointing Michael Anthony Bilandic to hold the mayoralty after Richard J. Daley's death in office.

From 1983 to 1986, Marty supported Mayor Harold Washington, Chicago's first African American mayor in the era of the Council Wars.[citation needed] He had been a supporter of Washington's mayoral candidacy.

Subsequent career

[edit]

After leaving the City Council, Oberman was appointed Chairman of the Shore Protection Commission, which was tasked with doing a complete rehabilitation of Chicago's shoreline to ensure environmental protection.

Oberman ran for Illinois Attorney General in 1982 (in which he was not on the ballot), 1986, and again in 1994. He did not win any of these campaigns.

In September 2014, Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel named Oberman to the board of Metra, Chicago's commuter rail system.[17] He took his seat in November.[18] On February 11, 2014, the board unanimously voted to make him Metra chairman, a position he held until November 1, 2016.[17][19] His term at Metra was plagued with problems, including late trains [20] and train breakdowns, among other issues.[21] [1]

On July 5, 2018, President Donald Trump announced he was seeking to appoint Oberman to the Democratic vacancy on the United States Surface Transportation Board. He was confirmed for the vacancy on January 3, 2019, by a voice vote in the United States Senate. In January 2019, he began a five-year term on the Surface Transportation Board. In January 2021, he was named Chairman of the Board by President Biden.

In the 2019 Chicago mayoral election, Oberman endorsed Lori Lightfoot, publicly declaring his support of her candidacy in advance of the first round of the election.[22]

Surface Transportation Board (STB)

[edit]

He was confirmed for the vacancy on January 3, 2019, by a voice vote in the United States Senate. Following Joe Biden's inauguration as president in 2021, Oberman was chosen to serve as chair of the STB.[23]

Oberman retired in May 2024.[24]

Family life

[edit]

Oberman lives in Chicago with his wife, Bonnie Oberman, who was the Chicago Director of Facing History and Ourselves.[25]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Surface Transportation Board".
  2. ^ "President Biden Designates Robert E. Primus as STB Chairman". Surface Transportation Board. Retrieved 2024-05-15.
  3. ^ "Surface Transportation Board".
  4. ^ "Metra board poised to name new chairman". Chicago Tribune. 9 February 2014. Retrieved 1 March 2024.
  5. ^ Dorfman, Daniel I. (29 November 2022). "Lake Forest resident retiring from Metra board". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved 1 March 2024.
  6. ^ a b Wanek-Libman, Mischa (2018-07-06). "Oberman nominated for STB slot". Railway Track and Structures. Retrieved 2022-12-23.
  7. ^ "Board Members". Surface Transportation Board. Retrieved 2024-02-22.
  8. ^ "Illinois State Journal VOL. 114: OFFERS PLAN TO END STRIKE". Illinois State Journal. Vol. 114. Springfield. October 2, 1945. p. 8. Retrieved October 5, 2023. Harry Oberman (...) died at 5. a. m. yesterday (...) Mr. Oberman was born March 25, 1888, in Russia and came to the United States in 1906. He entered the junk business a few years later and (...) became owner of the grocery store.
  9. ^ a b "The Illinois State Journal VOL. 78: LEADING INCIDENTS IN CHINESE MISSION MURDER". The Illinois State Journal. Vol. 78. June 21, 1909. p. 6. Retrieved October 5, 2023. Oberman-Graonick--Married, at 5 o'clock Sunday afternoon, June 20, 1909, at the Synagogue of the Congregation of B'Nal Abraham (...) Harry W. Oberman and Miss Ida Graonick...
  10. ^ "Illinois State Journal VOL. 108: SOVIET-GERMAN PACT TO BE PUSHED". Illinois State Journal. Vol. 108. October 9, 1939. p. 13. Retrieved October 5, 2023. Miss Sophia Gertrude Freidman, (...) became the bride of Morris David Oberman (...) yesterday.
  11. ^ "Illinois State Journal VOL. 132, NO. 303: SOVIETS LET CONVOY PASS". Illinois State Journal. Vol. 132, no. 303. November 6, 1963. p. 5. Retrieved October 5, 2023. M. D. (Mush) Oberman, (...) who is heading a drive for Howarth for the Republican nomination for secretary of state...
  12. ^ "Illinois State Journal and Register: SETS WORLD SPEED RECORD". Illinois State Journal and Register. September 5, 1948. p. 6. Retrieved October 5, 2023. Installation of officers of the Emes Jodge, Bnai Brith of Springfield (...) The following were installed: (...) Morris D. Oberman, secretary...
  13. ^ "Illinois State Journal VOL. 117: SENATE DEBATES DRAFT BILL". Illinois State Journal. Vol. 117. June 10, 1948. p. 12. Retrieved October 5, 2023. B'nai Abraham Elects Officers (...) Elected as members of the board of directors were (...) Morris Oberman....
  14. ^ a b "Illinois State Journal VOL. 128, NO. 49: POWELL WINS ON GOP SHIFT". Illinois State Journal. Vol. 128, no. 49. Springfield. January 8, 1959. p. 3. Retrieved October 5, 2023. Martin J. Oberman is serving as a page in the House of Representatives of the 86th Congress (...) he received his appointment while a superior honor student at Lawrence Junior High School. (...) Martin graduated from Culver Military Academy (...) and ranks in the top selection of his class in all subjects.
  15. ^ "Illinois State Journal VOL. 131, NO. 164: CARPENTER READY TO ORBIT". Illinois State Journal. Vol. 131, no. 164. Springfield. May 24, 1962. p. 34. Retrieved October 5, 2023. ...Martin Oberman, son of Mr. and Mrs. M. D. Oberman (...), will graduate from Culver Military Academy, (...) on June 5.
  16. ^ Alsene, Ed (October 5, 1962). "Illinois State Journal VO. 131, NO. 276: Quotes And Notes". Illinois State Journal. Vol. 131, no. 276. p. 31. Retrieved October 5, 2023. ...Martin Oberman of Springfield is on the freshman football squad at Yale University...
  17. ^ a b "Former alderman picked as new Metra chairman". Chicago Tribune. 11 February 2014. Retrieved 1 March 2024.
  18. ^ Franz, Justin (20 November 2023). "Surface Transportation Board Chair Martin J. Oberman to Step Down". Railfan & Railroad Magazine. Retrieved 1 March 2024.
  19. ^ "Martin J. Oberman, Chairman, Surface Transportation Board". North American Rail Shippers Association (NARS). Retrieved 1 March 2024.
  20. ^ ABC30. "Metra elects new board chairman Martin Oberman, expects delays Tuesday | ABC30 Fresno | abc30.com". ABC30 Fresno. Retrieved 2024-05-24.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  21. ^ "Critic dubs Metra's $1.3M tab for Clifford exit 'indefensible'". Chicago Sun-Times. 2014-09-05. Retrieved 2024-05-24.
  22. ^ "Former Clerk David Orr, Former Alds. Dick Simpson and Marty Oberman, endorse Lightfoot". Lightfoot for Chicago. February 20, 2019. Archived from the original (Press release) on February 21, 2019. Retrieved February 26, 2019.
  23. ^ "President Biden Designates Martin Oberman as Chairman of the Surface Transportation Board » Freight Rail Customer Alliance". railvoices.org. 2021-01-21. Retrieved 2023-02-10.
  24. ^ "STB Chairman Martin J. Oberman Retires". Surface Transportation Board. 2024-05-10. Retrieved 2024-05-15.
  25. ^ Community Conversation with Marco Williams | Facing History and Ourselves


Political offices
Preceded by Member of the Chicago City Council
43rd Ward
1975 – 1987 		Succeeded by


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