Patsy T. Mink: “I rise to express my sincere condolences to the family of my respected colleague, the Honorable Carl B. Albert, who…”

“I rise to express my sincere condolences to the family of my respected colleague, the Honorable Carl B. Albert, who passed away this past Friday. I join my fellow Members of the U.S. House of Representatives in paying tribute to former Speaker Carl Albert's service in the Congress and to our nation. I served with Speaker Albert in the House from 1965 through 1976. During these 12 years, I witnessed his dedication to his constituents, his sense of fair play, and his concern for the well being of the poor and disadvantaged. He was a strong, effective Majority Leader and played an important role in the passage of civil rights and poverty legislation. As Speaker, from 1971-1976, Carl Albert presided over a tumultuous period when the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal divided our country. Throughout this difficult period, Carl Albert was a principled and effective leader, vigilant to the demands of conflicting viewpoints and to the civil strife that accompanied these crises. Carl Albert, who rose from poverty to high national office, demonstrated that talent, hard work, and perseverance could overcome the humblest beginnings. He knew that not everyone shared his ability to overcome adversity. His compassion and concern for the most vulnerable members of our society was a hallmark of his 30 years in Congress.”