Political Quotes

“I had the privilege of knowing Tom Udall's uncle when I served in the House of Representatives. He was not only a great leader, but he was a funny man. I have repeated some of his lines and jokes so often. I don't even give him credit anymore. I hope his family and his memory will forgive me. I have often repeated his prognosis for politicians. Morris Udall said: Once you get politics in your bloodstream, only embalming fluid will replace it. I have often thought of what drives us, the men and women of the Senate and the House, to continue to engage in this life's work of politics, with all the cost that it incurs in our lives. Clearly, we are driven by something more than just comfort. To my friend, Tom Udall, let me say I am glad you proved your uncle wrong. As much as I wish you were staying with us for a while longer, I know that you are not leaving public service. You never will. You are just leaving this chapter. In the Udall family, public service is a noble tradition. Your uncle always served with honor in the House for three decades. Your cousins-- Mark Udall, Mike Lee, and Gordon Smith--have all served in the Senate. Your father, Stewart Udall, answered President Kennedy's call for the best and brightest and served as President Kennedy's Secretary of the Interior. I want to mention one footnote that should never be forgotten, particularly at this moment in history.…”