Political Quotes

“I rise today to remember a dedicated public servant and great friend, Robert T. Matsui. It was a privilege and honor serving with Bob. Although we only served together for one term, I learned a great deal from Bob--starting when I worked at the other end of Pennsylvania Avenue--about protecting Social Security, expanding free trade, welfare reform, and giving American families more opportunities to prosper. His selfless determination, borne from his early childhood experiences--resulted in a lifelong commitment to heal our Nation's wounds and make amends for past wrongs. Answering President John F. Kennedy's call, Bob inspired generations of Americans who dedicated themselves to public service, including minorities and the Asian-American community in particular. His leadership in this Chamber resulted in a formal apology for the treatment of Japanese-Americans interned and discriminated against during World War II. Bob never shied away from difficult debates. While seeking innovative ways to help America's employees stay competitive in the global economy, he championed President Clinton's North American Fair Trade Agreement and secured a strong, bipartisan vote in the House for permanent free trade relations with China. His efforts helped fuel the largest economic expansion in our Nation's history, and opened new lines of communication and cultural understanding around the world.”