On the recordDecember 7, 2016
That is the way we talk here. I thank the gentlelady from California for her kind words. We have been together through thick, thin, and the attempt to get thin, and that story about bending at the waist is a true one. I am not the person with the best hairdo or sleek or chic, but one of the things I have so admired about my friend is her authenticity. We first got to know each other in the House, and then I encouraged you to come to the Senate, which certainly was the right thing to do. You are yourself. You are true to yourself, you are true to your beliefs. You are true to your constituents, and you are true to the Constitution. You are such a true, blue person. There are many words to describe you, such as outspoken, feisty, and all of that, but I would say the word that describes you best is ``authenticity.'' You are who you are. The people of California have loved you for it and sent you to the Congress. We started out together basically in city council roles, sometimes called the pothole parliament. It has been a pleasure to serve with the Senator from California. I have watched you stand up for your beliefs, and along the way, as you stood up for your beliefs, you made believers of us all. Godspeed to you, Barbara. We are friends forever. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Michigan. Tribute to Departing Senators
