Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of a dear friend, Tommy Rukavina, who passed away after his battle with cancer. Tommy's life ended the way he lived, with a fight. He wouldn't have had it any other way. It is hard not to think of Tommy when I travel northern Minnesota and see all the great communities that rely on the mining industry and when I am with the amazing men and women who sustain Minnesota's Iron Range today. These are the people Tommy cared about. These are the people he represented and the people he helped. Tommy Rukavina was outspoken. He never shied away from a fight, and yet, win or lose, he preserved civil discourse in every interaction. After difficult battles, you would still want to hang out with Tommy. The Croatian Sensation, as I once called him, was passionate about life. He was passionate about people, and he was passionate about the causes he believed in and fought for every day. I have no doubt that he has a special place in Heaven, and I know Heaven will never be the same now that he is there. Our State has suffered a great loss. Tommy will be deeply missed. Our condolences to his family and loved ones, and a special thanks to all of you for sharing Tommy Rukavina with the rest of us. ____________________”