Ralph Lee Abraham: “it is rare in this Chamber for incumbent Senators who have lost on election day to still have the privilege of…”

“it is rare in this Chamber for incumbent Senators who have lost on election day to still have the privilege of addressing the Senate again, at least in their capacity of finishing out their terms. For me, if there is a silver lining behind this extended session of which we are a part, it is because it gives me a chance to thank people--friends, supporters, staff, colleagues, and others--who have made it possible for me, a grandson of immigrants, to serve and succeed here. I begin today by making some comments and thanking people who have made a difference. First, I thank my Senate colleagues with whom I have worked over the last 6 years. I especially express my gratitude for the majority leaders under whom I have served--Senator Bob Dole and Senator Trent Lott--for their confidence in me, for making me part of their circle of key advisers, for their support on both legislative and political matters and, most importantly, for their friendship.…”