Political Quotes

“I rise for a couple of minutes to briefly discuss the change that occurred today in the Senate and to share some thoughts, if I may. First, I think I can safely speak for virtually all of us in this Chamber on both sides of the aisle in expressing our affection for our colleague from Vermont. He has been a friend to us for many years. He is known in this body as a good and decent man. I have no doubt that the high esteem in which he has been held will continue. Secondly, I think it bears mentioning that despite the change in the caucus ratio that will soon occur, the Senate is going about its business today much as it did yesterday and much as I am confident it will in the days to come. That is how this institution functions, and whether ratios change by 1 or 2 in one direction or the other is certainly big political news for some, I guess. My guess is that the substantive work will continue much as it has, with us having to work out differences and compromise to benefit the public at large.”