Nancy Pelosi: “Mr. Speaker, it is with personal and official pride that I rise to pay tribute to Charles Johnson on his retirement as…”

“Mr. Speaker, it is with personal and official pride that I rise to pay tribute to Charles Johnson on his retirement as House Parliamentarian and to thank him for his many years of outstanding service to this body. To praise Charlie Johnson is easy, and it is one thing that brings Democrats and Republicans together. I have only served for 17 years of Charlie's 40, and during that time I have observed, and we have all witnessed, profound changes in how this body conducts its business. But through every change and difficult time, the House has always been able to count on the expert, honest, and fair advice of Charlie Johnson. Charlie began his service in the House in 1964, as acknowledged by the Speaker, shortly after graduating from the University of Virginia Law School. When he was appointed House Parliamentarian in 1994, he joined a distinguished line that includes Clarence Cannon, Lewis Deschler, and Bill Brown. Think of this, my colleagues: Charlie is just the third Parliamentarian since 1928. Respected on both sides of the aisle, Charlie was first appointed by a Democratic Speaker, Speaker Tom Foley, and reappointed by Republican Speakers Newt Gingrich and the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hastert). Charlie exemplifies the best of this House.”