Political Quotes

“Mr. President, my heart is heavy with sadness following the passing of a dear friend, Robert C. Byrd, Senator from West Virginia. We have been friends for nearly 50 years and I am overcome with memories. Nearly 48 years ago Senator Byrd was one of the first to greet me in the Chamber of the U.S. Senate. Since that first moment of friendship we have worked together on many projects. And since those early days, I have called him, ``my leader.'' He was my mentor. Over the years he provided me countless opportunities and tasked me with positions of critical national oversight while guiding my actions with the temperance he learned as the longest serving Senator in history. He was a Senator's Senator. His many accomplishments were historic and he fought tirelessly to improve the lives of working families in West Virginia. We shared the belief that we must provide for the people who trust us to represent their communities in Washington. I owe much to my leader, Senator Byrd. He will forever have my gratitude and respect and I will miss him dearly. My thoughts and prayers are with the Byrd family during this difficult time. Mr. President, as America mourns, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Senator Byrd.”