Once a rabble-rouser, Tom Graves changed his tune to gain influence

Rep. Tom Graves (R-Ranger) speaks during a hearing on Capitol Hill on June 21, 2017. (Photo by Astrid Riecken/Getty Images)

Credit: Tamar Hallerman

Credit: Tamar Hallerman

Rep. Tom Graves (R-Ranger) speaks during a hearing on Capitol Hill on June 21, 2017. (Photo by Astrid Riecken/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON -- The weeks leading up to the October 2013 government shutdown proved to be pivotal ones in the career trajectory of Georgia Congressman Tom Graves.