Mike Thompson: “we are here today to honor a colleague who honorably served in the House for 26 years, our good friend, the late Robert…”

“we are here today to honor a colleague who honorably served in the House for 26 years, our good friend, the late Robert T. Matsui. This bill to rename the U.S. courthouse in Sacramento after Bob is a small tribute to our friend who always rose above petty, partisan politics to do what was good and what was right for his district and for our country. Bob provided more than a voice for those who could not speak for themselves. He provided monumental victories and results, not by being the loudest but by always being the smartest and the most informed person in any debate. Bob's legacy of legislative victories directly improved the lives of millions of Americans spanning several generations. His victories included protection for single mothers with infants, stronger civil rights laws and protection of our Nation's most vulnerable seniors. He also played a key role in crafting fiscal policy for the past 26 years, and before his very untimely death he was leading the effort to protect Social Security benefits for America's seniors. Bob left an indelible mark on national policy, but he never forgot the needs of his district. His district and the greater Sacramento region were always his number one priority. Today, we will vote to rename the U.S. courthouse in Sacramento after Bob Matsui. This courthouse is a symbol of Bob's commitment to his district. Here in Congress, he was able to secure $142 million that was used and needed to build that courthouse.…”