Political Quotes

“I rise today in this Chamber to pay tribute to a dedicated Delawarean, a friend who is wrapping up 36 years of public service to our State and our Nation. Lynne Terry Phifer of Newark, DE, a valued member of my Senate staff, is retiring at the end of this month. She has been a high-spirited, pure-hearted presence for us as long as I have known her, and I am deeply grateful to Lynne for her service and grateful for her significant contributions. Before I say farewell, though, it is only fitting to highlight her long career and offer up some thanks and some thoughts from her friends, family, coworkers, and well-wishers. Her story didn't start and doesn't end with her more than 8 years serving in my offices for the Senate and for Wilmington, DE. She grew up in a community along the banks of Naamans Creek, where it empties into the Delaware River. It is known as Claymont, DE, an area that has become better known, perhaps, because of Claymont's favorite son, our President, Joe Biden. Lynne graduated from Claymont High School in 1972, the same year Biden was first elected to this Chamber. It was at Claymont High School where, some members of my staff report, in good humor, Lynne made a name for herself ``playing a mean clarinet.'' I didn't know clarinets could be mean. Lynne's public service career began shortly thereafter. She started a 10-year run with Delaware's Department of Labor, the Department of Health and Social Services, and the Division of Personnel.…”