Political Quotes

“I rise today to salute Lloyd Bentsen, a dearly departed former Member of this body. Senator Bentsen died yesterday at the age of 85, and he leaves behind a legacy of fiscal responsibility, steadfast service, and unwavering statesmanship. Senator Bentsen was born in Mission, TX, in 1921, a descendant of Danish immigrants. From a young age, he excelled in nearly all his endeavors: he was an Eagle Scout, a distinguished graduate of the University of Texas Law School, and a fighter pilot, flying B-24 combat missions during World War II. At the young age of 23, Senator Bentsen was promoted to the rank of major, a post that gave him command of over 600 men. For his valiant service during the war, the Army Air Corps, now the Air Force, awarded him the Distinguished Flying Cross, one of the military's highest honors. Senator Bentsen went on to serve the people of Texas as Hidalgo county judge, U.S. Congressman, and, beginning in 1970, as U.S. Senator. He was overwhelmingly reelected to this body three times, in 1976, 1982, and 1988. As a Senator, Lloyd Bentsen was a champion of sound national economic policy and fiscal responsibility. He served as chairman of the Joint Economic Committee and the Committee on Finance, and balanced his keen eye on progressive causes such as women's rights with a dogged determination to cut taxes and support our Nation's businesses.…”