Anna Eshoo: “On April 3, 1996 the United States lost a leader. Secretary of Commerce Ronald H. Brown inspired us all with his ability…”

“On April 3, 1996 the United States lost a leader. Secretary of Commerce Ronald H. Brown inspired us all with his ability to bring together people from different backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures to find and achieve a goal for the common good. He inspired us by his commitment to finding opportunities for U.S. businesses overseas, recognizing that our country's trade deficit is harmful to our domestic economy and the jobs Americans want and need. Because of his leadership, many California technology firms have increased their sales to foreign countries, which has increased employment and a rebounding California economy. According to the Joint Venture's Index of Silicon Valley, 46,000 jobs have been added to our region since 1992. The semiconductor industry, which has endured years of job loss due to a trade deficit with Japan, showed a gain of 4,300 jobs between 1994 and 1995. Business confidence of Santa Clara County companies reached an all-time high of 73 percent in 1995. Secretary Brown advocated effectively for economic and employment improvements in Silicon Valley, and this is just part of his legacy. America will miss his leadership. I will miss his friendship of almost two decades. Secretary Brown gave his life while serving his country. God rest his good soul.”