Political Quotes

“I rise today to honor the memory of one of the Senate's giants, Robert C. Byrd. My family and I were saddened to learn of his passing on Monday morning at the age of 92. I will remember Senator Byrd as a fierce defender of the Constitution, master of Senate procedure and a proud fighter for West Virginia and its rural heritage. Senator Byrd was more than just a colleague, he was a mentor. He taught me--and everyone who had the honor of serving with him--never to apologize for standing up for your State. During more than a half century of service in Congress, Senator Byrd gave a voice to those who would not have been heard otherwise. There are times when it is easy to get caught up in the petty bickering and partisan squabbles that seem to be increasingly plaguing this chamber. But, we would all do well to follow the example Senator Byrd set for all of us during his legendary Senate career and never lose sight of the fact that we are sent here to fight for those in our home States and across the country who cannot fight for themselves. Senator Byrd's work on behalf of his constituents is well known. West Virginians knew they could count on their senior Senator to come here to Washington and deliver for them. They were not alone. I will never forget how helpful Senator Byrd was to my State. Louisiana lost a true friend. Through storms and floods, Senator Byrd made sure that promises made to the gulf coast, particularly to Louisiana, were not broken.”