On the recordMarch 22, 2018
I appreciate the opportunity to express my deep gratitude for the honor given to me by the people of Mississippi to represent them in Washington. I leave the Senate with confidence that our enduring Constitution guards our country from human error, empowers our citizens to achieve greatness, and shines as a beacon of freedom and liberty for the world. I am optimistic about the future of our great Nation and in the U.S. Senate's role in determining that future. While in Congress, I have served with nine Presidents during times of conflict and peace. We have debated policies from trade to taxes to terrorism. We have engaged in heated arguments. But even in full disagreement, I believe all our motivations begin at the same point: the sincere desire to serve our States and country. No one remains in the House or Senate who was here when I first took office in January 1973, but I am particularly thankful for the friendship and leadership of the senior Senator from Vermont, Mr. Leahy. He and I have fought side by side with each other and sometimes face to face against each other, always with friendship and respect. I am also grateful to have served with honorable Senators from my State. My colleague, Senator Wicker, has been a friend and a strong and effective advocate for our State. We have worked together not only in the Senate, but also when he served as a U.S. Representative. Former Majority Leader Trent Lott continues to be a voice in our national conversation.…





