Max Baucus: “Benjamin Franklin once said: The noblest question in the world is, ``What good may I do in it?'' I rise today to honor…”

“Benjamin Franklin once said: The noblest question in the world is, ``What good may I do in it?'' I rise today to honor the service of Russ Sullivan, who was a distinguished member of my staff for more than a decade until his departure earlier this month. Most of us come to the Senate because it is a place where, despite the many challenges, there remains a capacity to do great good. And too often people forget that. But Russ Sullivan never did. Every day he came to work in the Senate and for the Finance Committee, Russ led by asking our staff how can we do good here? And how can we make this country and the world a better place? Russ's leadership proves that by working to do good and working together to find solutions we can get things done. Russ is well known here on Capitol Hill. He has earned the respect and admiration of Senators and staff on both sides of the aisle. Russ's political career started early. He was twice elected Student Body President--once at McClellan High School and again at Baylor University. He had his sights set on a life of public service in Washington. In 1995, he became tax counsel and Legislative Director to Senator Bob Graham. In 1999, he moved to the Finance Committee staff to serve as Chief Tax Counsel to Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan. Russ stayed on at the committee when I became chairman in 2001. Through his proven abilities, he was promoted to the staff director of my team in 2004.…”