On the recordMay 5, 2020
All of us, of course, were deeply saddened by the passing of our friend, Elijah Cummings, last year. He was a giant of moral strength and unquestioned integrity. In his 24 years in office, Elijah built a reputation for legislative skill, excellence in constituent service, an unyielding energy for rooting out corruption in government, and fighting tirelessly for justice, equality, and opportunity. He served his constituents in Maryland's Seventh Congressional District well. And today, Madam Speaker, they are sending someone to take his place whom I believe is an excellent choice. As the dean of the Maryland Congressional delegation, it is my honor today to welcome the House's newest Member, Representative Kweisi Mfume. However, he is not new to the House. He is a veteran of this body, a skilled and experienced legislator, who represented Maryland's Seventh District from 1987 to 1996. When he left to become the national president of the NAACP, Elijah Cummings was chosen to succeed him. Now, as we continue to mourn Elijah's passing, we welcome Representative Mfume back to his old seat to carry on the work that he and Elijah have both been engaged in for many, many years. The voters of the Seventh District, to their credit, replaced great intellect with great intellect, a passion for justice, equality, and opportunity, with a successor who mirrors and shares that passion and history of commitment.…





