Debbie Dingell: “in the last 18 months, Democrats like Sam Gibbons and myself have found our voices in taking on the reactionary and…”

“in the last 18 months, Democrats like Sam Gibbons and myself have found our voices in taking on the reactionary and extremist behavior we have seen coming to the fore in this institution. Some may think Sam is retiring at a time when his voice is vital to the rejuvenation of our party. Let me tell you a little bit about the history Sam Gibbons has created during his tenure as a Florida Congressman. Since 1965, Sam Gibbons has been a tireless advocate for the Nation's elderly. We both voted for Medicare during its inception in 1965 and have continued to fight for its funding especially today when the Republicans want to cut it to fund their wealthy tax break. I remember when Sam was floor manager during Lyndon Johnson's Great Society legislation which included programs like Head Start and the Job Corps. As the chairman and now ranking member on the House Ways and Means Committee I had the honor of working closely with Sam as his committee oversaw the Medicare trust fund and Commerce oversaw Medicaid and part of Medicare. I have watched Sam Gibbons grow from a Florida freshman to a virtual institution and a recognized leader in his party. This Congress will not be the same without you. It will have been 34 years since I last knew this institution without Sam Gibbons and I am saddened to return to that time.”