Trent Lott: “tonight, as we adjourn, we do so in memory of John O. Pastore, who served the people of Rhode Island here in the Senate…”

“tonight, as we adjourn, we do so in memory of John O. Pastore, who served the people of Rhode Island here in the Senate from 1950 to 1976. Senator Pastore's life was in many ways a realization of the American dream--characterized by humble beginnings, hard work, opportunity, and accomplishment. His father was an immigrant tailor who passed away when John was a young boy. From that time on, he and his four siblings were reared by their mother, who supported the family as a seamstress. Senator Pastore earned his law degree from Northeastern University, through evening classes the school offered at the Providence YMCA. The family home was his first law office. Senator Pastore, was initially elected to office in 1934, when he became a Member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives. He subsequently served as assistant state attorney general, lieutenant governor, and in 1945 became governor when his predecessor resigned for another office. Senator Pastore was then elected to two terms in his own right. In 1950, he was elected to the U.S. Senate to fill a vacant seat. Two years later, he won the first of four full terms in this institution. He never lost an election. Many individuals have passed through the doors of this great chamber, and each has left a unique imprint. Senators for years to come will think of John Pastore whenever the 'Pastore rule', relating to germaneness of debate, is invoked.”