On the recordDecember 21, 2018
Madam President, December should be the happiest month of the year, as we await Christmas and the New Year, but in the even numbered years, it is bittersweet as we say goodbye to colleagues who will not be returning in the next Congress. While the body often seems to be polarized and contentious to the public that knows us only from media appearances, the fact is that partnership and alliances across the aisle are part of the fabric of the body, and friendships of unlikely allies abound. This is not to say that we don't disagree on issues; we very much do. But we strive for these disagreements never to erode our collegiality. I would like to take this opportunity to thank those with whom I have been proud to serve, Mr. Hatch, our President Pro Tempore, Mr. Corker, Mr. Flake, and Mr. Heller on my side of the aisle for their distinguished service. To my friend, Mr. Kyl, it has been a pleasure to serve with you again. On the Democrat side of the aisle, Mr. Donnelly, Ms. McCaskill, Mr. Nelson, and especially my dear friend, Ms. Heitkamp, the Senator from North Dakota. Each of these individuals cares deeply for the Nation, for the States they have represented so ably, and for the Senate. ____________________
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