The Senate is more important than any or all of us, more important than I am, more important than the majority and minority leaders, more important than all 100 of us, more important than all of the 1,843 men and women who have served in this body since 1789. Each of us has a solemn responsibility to remember that, and to remember it often.
Byrd emphasized the Senate's significance over individual members and leaders.
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More from Robert Byrd
Senator Robert Byrd, the expert extraordinary on the Senate, spent weeks on end trying to figure out a way that you could assure the passage of bills that pertained to the budget and not destroy the filibuster rule.
No one has done more for miners in this country than Senator Robert C. Byrd, of West Virginia.
Bob, I will never know the rules as well as you do. I will make a deal with you. I will not surprise you if you will not surprise me.
I have proposed a variety of improvements to Senate Rules to achieve a more sensible balance allowing the majority to function while still protecting minority rights.