Brian Jones: “as I mentioned in my farewell speech last week, I also wanted to spend a few final moments here on the Senate floor…”

“as I mentioned in my farewell speech last week, I also wanted to spend a few final moments here on the Senate floor honoring my incredible staff. As the first Democrat elected to the Senate from Alabama in two decades, I had no idea how many brilliant young folks would want to come work in my offices, but we were absolutely overwhelmed with the talent my election attracted--and not just from Alabama--we had applicants from all over the country. We of course tried to give priority to folks from Alabama, but we did have a few from other States who brought special expertise and who, after just a short time with us, became honorary Alabamians. Some of my staff came from other Senate or House offices where they had been biding their time, hoping 1 day to work for an Alabama Democratic Senator. Their experience was critical. Some staff members brought no legislative experience at all, but they were quick and eager learners and got up to speed unbelievably fast. What they all had in common was a deep and sincere commitment to doing the right thing for the right reasons. There were very few shortcuts and very few easy decisions, but we all worked hard to understand the issues backwards and forwards and to do our best for the people of Alabama and for our country.…”