Chris Sununu: “across America, those citizens who have on occasion chosen--or been required--to listen to congressional debate have…”

“across America, those citizens who have on occasion chosen--or been required--to listen to congressional debate have often heard the Senate described as an ``Institution.'' It is a term which has been overused and perhaps misused more than once, but I believe it is quite appropriately applied in observing that with Senator Trent Lott's departure, we have lost a reservoir of institutional knowledge, knowledge which has been of enormous value to Members of every political stripe for many years. The breadth of Trent Lott's experience--on both sides of the aisle, in both Chambers of Congress, as back bencher, and as a member of leadership--has given him an insight into and understanding of the legislative process unique among his peers. We have heard many colleagues describe the effect of that experience when combined with the persuasive personality of the Mississippi gulf coast: No one counted votes better, and perhaps more important, no one enjoyed it more. Within our caucus, in committee rooms, and on the floor, Trent could rely time and again on the great friendships and professional respect developed through years of hard work. Even more valuable perhaps, he understood the unusual psychology, decisionmaking, and ego unique to Members of Congress. We all perceive the important role these factors play in our work; few have been able to master them to their use.”