Sanford Bishop: “I thank the gentleman for yielding. Truly, this is the day that the Lord has made. In spite of the fact that our hearts…”

“I thank the gentleman for yielding. Truly, this is the day that the Lord has made. In spite of the fact that our hearts are heavy, we must rejoice and be glad in it because we have the opportunity to celebrate the life of our longtime friend and our colleague, Congressman Elijah Cummings. As you have heard, Elijah rose from modest beginnings to become one of the greatest public servants that our country has seen. Elijah always did what he believed was right, which earned him respect and friendship on both sides of the aisle. His courage, his passion, and his integrity were undeniable to anyone who crossed his path. Elijah inspired us regularly as one of the greatest orators in this House. He came to my district in Georgia as a guest speaker, and when he finished, everyone was in awe. Elijah's powerful voice made everyone take notice, listen intently, and then act. America has lost a fierce warrior who was committed to doing the right thing, regardless of politics. We will truly feel his absence in this House, where he spoke truth to power and passionately advocated for justice and equality for all. My wife, Vivian, and I send our prayers and our deepest condolences to his wife, Maya, his children, and his family as we mourn this great man. Winston Churchill once said: ``We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.'' Elijah Cummings gave so much to so many for so long.…”