Tina Smith: “it is a privilege to come to the Chamber and speak of Bob Dole and also his distinguished wife, our colleague, Elizabeth…”

“it is a privilege to come to the Chamber and speak of Bob Dole and also his distinguished wife, our colleague, Elizabeth Dole, both great public servants. While that is my intention, to speak about them--specifically, Senator Bob Dole--I would like to join all Senators, Democrats who yesterday spoke of Senator Byrd, I know many Republicans did as well. I, not being in town, wanted to take an occasion to salute Senator Byrd for a remarkable career in the Senate. I was touched, however, recently by the recognition given to his wife, who recently passed away, in which Senator Byrd essentially said that this would be a bittersweet day for him in that he now is the record holder for service in the Senate because Erma would not be here to share it with him. I know how much Senator Byrd values the Senate, but I think that comment of his, that reflection, was evidence that he values his marriage and family even more. As a Republican Senator, I salute Senator Byrd for his remarkably long and distinguished career. ____________________”