Frank Lautenberg: “for those who served with him, the death of Paul Wellstone 5 years ago was such a shock because not only did Paul…”

“for those who served with him, the death of Paul Wellstone 5 years ago was such a shock because not only did Paul represent intellect and vigor, he also, because of his enthusiasm and high energy level, represented a youthful picture. He looked like a young guy, college-age person. When he spoke, he did it with such energy that everybody would hear him or listen to him. If you didn't hear him, he would make sure you heard him because he was never bashful about sticking up, about talking about things he believed in. There was very little he did not believe in that would engage him so--I will use the term--furiously in his presentation. So it is appropriate we remember a distinguished Member of the Senate, who served only a short time, and was on his way for another term. But his impact was enormous. I think in many ways he created a picture of courage and right that serves as a model for things we generally do here. I, as so many here did, regarded him as a friend.”