Political Quotes

“Today I rise in tribute to a constituent whose achievement is the talk of the Nation. Tonight Cal Ripken, Jr., a native of Aberdeen, MD, will play his 2,131st consecutive game with the Baltimore Orioles, breaking a longstanding record held by the legendary Lou Gehrig. It is fitting that Cal is the only player ever to accomplish this feat, because he uniquely represents the qualities for which Lou Gehrig will always be remembered--sportsmanship, fair play, and sheer love of the game. Fans across the Nation have started calling Cal the Iron Man. But endurance is only one aspect of his success. He was Rookie of the Year in 1982; MVP in 1983 and 1991; and played in 13 consecutive All-Star games. He has hit more home runs than any shortstop in major league history. Despite his fame, Cal Ripken takes precious time before and after every game to sign autographs, pose for pictures, or simply to chat with his fans--the way Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Jackie Robinson once did. At a time when many fans are disillusioned by the big-business approach to baseball, Cal's sincere passion for the sport reminds us of a time when baseball was what it was always meant to be--a game. I urge all my colleagues to join with me and the citizens of Maryland as we salute Cal Ripken, Jr. His accomplishment is a timely illustration of what is best about our national pastime.”