Political Quotes

“I wish to join my colleagues in noting the farewell address of Senator Arlen Specter is an inspiring moment in the Senate. It has been my great honor to serve with Senator Specter and to be a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee with him as well. I think of his contribution to the Senate at many levels. I certainly appreciate what he did for the Senate and for the Nation when he chaired the Judiciary Committee and served on that committee, particularly when it came to the hearings involving the appointment of new Supreme Court Justices. Without fail, Senator Specter at those hearings would always have dazzling insight into the current state of the law and the record of the nominee. I couldn't wait for him each time there was a hearing to see what his tack would be. It always reflected a thoughtful reflection on the historic moment we faced with each nominee. The questions he asked, the positions he took, the statements he made, all made for a better record for the United States as the Senate proceeded to vote on those historic nominations. But there is one area he touched on ever so slightly that I believe is equal to his mark on the Senate Judiciary Committee. This man, Senator Arlen Specter, with the help in some respects and in some efforts by Senator Tom Harkin, has done more to advance the cause of medical research in his time than virtually any other Member of the Congress.”