Dan Kildee: “While typically I would address the House on much more serious subjects, today it is a slightly lighter subject that I…”

“While typically I would address the House on much more serious subjects, today it is a slightly lighter subject that I am here to address. Much to my regret, I am here standing before you to congratulate my dear friend and classmate from Massachusetts (Mr. Kennedy) and his Boston Red Sox on their American League Championship Series win over my beloved Detroit Tigers. And in accordance with our agreement, today I am wearing the gentleman's rather unsightly Boston Red Sox tie, which is painful to say the least. Although the Tigers did not make it to the World Series this year, I do want to say how proud I am of our players, of our team, of our State, and specifically of Jim Leyland, who, after two World Series, four American League Championship Series, and 8 years as our manager, announced his retirement this week. Jim, I am sure I speak for all Michiganders and all baseball fans in saying that we are proud to have you retire as a Detroit Tiger. To Michigan, and specifically to Detroit, the Tigers have always meant more than just baseball. Year after year, their perseverance and grit, even through really tough times for both the team and for the city, that perseverance has been emblematic of the determination and resilience of Detroiters and Michiganders. Tigers baseball has provided hope and instilled a sense of pride in a city and State that has surely seen its share of difficulties.…”