On the recordDecember 7, 2006
Thank you, Congressman Kirk, for the opportunity to come today to speak about Henry Hyde, who has been a great statesman, who has served his district from Illinois and the Nation in such a great manner for so many years. It is a great honor to rise to recognize his dedication as a public servant and as a skilled legislator, and a real pillar, especially in the foreign policy community. Since 1975, Congressman Hyde has faithfully served his constituency in the Chicagoland area. And all Americans, now, on his retirement, we take this opportunity to thank Henry for his outstanding contributions and influence on our country. Before entering the U.S. House, Representative Hyde served in the Illinois General Assembly, beginning in 1966, which I note is the year that I was born. So I don't quite remember that, when Henry first started serving the State legislature. But he rose in the State legislature to the position of majority leader, and he earned a reputation as an articulate debater. When he was then elected to Congress, he brought his knowledge, his skills and his passion to the House to serve our country. In the House he has served on the Select Committee on Intelligence, he has chaired the Committee on the Judiciary, and currently chairs the Committee on International Relations. Because of his work, his tenure and his record, the Chicago Tribune has called Hyde one of the most respected Members of Congress, and an eloquent and intellectual powerhouse.
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