Political Quotes

On the recordJune 26, 2013
I was here on the floor when Senator Mo Cowan gave his farewell remarks. He came to the Senate as an appointee to fill the spot John Kerry left vacant when he left to the Secretary of State's position. I can't think of a person who came to the Senate who has been so warmly received so quickly. Senator Harry Reid made the comment that it is rare for a new Member--just 6 months of seniority--to get a standing ovation at his caucus lunch. Mo Cowan got two yesterday, which I think is a tribute to the fact that we enjoyed his service and value his friendship, and will remember him for his fine representation of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Mo Udall, a wise and witty longtime member of this Senate, famously said that once politics gets in your blood, the only cure is embalming fluid. There is a lot of evidence to support that idea. But another Mo-- Senator Mo Cowan--is an exception to the rule. When he was appointed 5 months ago to fill the seat vacated by Secretary of State John Kerry, Senator Cowan said he was happy to serve his State--but only a new Senator could be elected to finish Secretary Kerry's term in this Senate. Well, yesterday Massachusetts voters went to the polls to choose that new Senator. I look forward to Senator Ed Markey joining this body very soon. For now, I want to take a moment to thank Mo Cowan for his service to his State, this Senate and our Nation. Senator Cowan has served with wisdom, courage and civility.…
Said by
Dick Durbin
Democratic · Illinois
Source
govinfo.gov
Jun 26, 2013

Share

More from Dick Durbin

Aug 14, 2026

It’s great to be here at the EBC to celebrate the good, impactful work that is at the core of this center’s mission.

durbin.senate.gov
Aug 21, 2026

The American Red Cross declared a national blood supply crisis in the U.S. last month for just the second time ever, which has impacted patients’ ability to be treated for illnesses or undergo surgery.

durbin.senate.gov
Aug 18, 2026

The Trump administration has not provided transparency into the use of federal funds for the East Wing project, and they have limited congressional oversight, meaningful public input, and adherence to established federal processes.

durbin.senate.gov
Aug 17, 2026

A farmer in Nebraska expects to pay for his wife and himself $32,000 this year for health insurance premiums.

durbin.senate.gov

Other voices in this conversation