Political Quotes

“I rise to join with the majority leader in paying tribute to an extraordinary woman, J.L. Cullen. It would be accurate to say that J.L. worked for the House Rules Committee, but that wouldn't begin to capture the spirit of this wonderful person. Yes, she was an outstanding and dedicated staffer, but for those of us who have served in the House--especially women--she was so much more. She was our friend. From my first days in the House I was privileged to know J.L. and our relationship grew from there. Her wonderful sense of humor, her warmth and her intellect made an impression on all of us, as our distinguished majority leader can attest from his days in the House. As an unofficial morale officer, J.L. brought together women of the House of Representatives, on a number of occasions hosting my female colleagues and me for dinner at her home. I will always fondly remember dinners with J.L., Nancy Johnson, and Lynn Martin--for both the company and the cooking! J.L. knew her way around a kitchen as well as she knew her way around House procedure, and in fact ultimately opened up her own business selling pesto. No matter what she did, J.L. was always gracious, always hospitable. And in the House, she quietly but effectively fostered unity and camaraderie among Members. She was there through dark days as well as the bright ones, and she was a tremendous resource for us.”