Political Quotes

“I thank my colleague and friend, Congressman LaHood, for having this tribute tonight. Bob Michel was a giant here in Washington, and he left this world in a manner in which he probably would liked to have--without fanfare, without parades, just going home. As was said, Bob Michel actually served in this House for 38 years. He loved the House of Representatives. He cherished this Chamber and he cherished this institution. He served as minority leader for 14 years in, as he lovingly called it, the people's House, in this institution he dearly loved. Few are left in this Chamber who actually served with him. It is my hope that Minority Whip Hoyer gets to the floor, who served with him. I think Steny also tries to represent that era of time when there were people who disagreed without being disagreeable or who could work across the aisle. I look forward to hearing Steny's remarks. Bob was known for his aw-shucks demeanor and his baritone singing voice. I remember once at a Lincoln Day dinner, when he was leaving and I was running, and the people always wanted him to finish the Lincoln Day dinner singing ``God Bless America.'' Always. It was mandatory. But his aw-shucks demeanor and his baritone voice should not distract from his keen legislative ability, where he steered the Reagan Revolution through this Chamber as the minority leader. As those of us who have served post-Bob Michel know, that is a difficult thing to do.…”