Frank Lautenberg: “I wasn't here when Jon Corzine arrived in the Senate 5 years ago in fact, he actually took my place at the time. We met…”

“I wasn't here when Jon Corzine arrived in the Senate 5 years ago in fact, he actually took my place at the time. We met to share ideas on an agenda for New Jersey and America and I followed his progress closely. I was impressed by what I saw in Jon's service in the Senate, where he has earned respect and affection. Jon came from great success in the world of finance and industry, but he is able to communicate with ordinary people, as well. Some people arrive here and immediately head for the headlines. But that isn't Jon Corzine's style. Jon is a committed ``workhorse,'' who works long hours with high intensity. He doesn't have a lot of flash, but he is very effective. He came to Washington for one reason: to serve the people of New Jersey. Now, with some sorrow on my part, he is leaving us here for the same reason: to help New Jersey even more directly. Even before the terrorist attacks on 9/11, work had been done to strengthen security at our chemical plants. Jon recognized the importance of that issue long before most people, so when he arrived here in the Senate, he took the ball and ran with it. Jon introduced a plan to overhaul security at chemical plants, and many people were surprised when he got it unanimously approved in committee. But those who know Jon Corzine weren't surprised. Even when that bill was blocked by lobbyists, Jon didn't give up. He has continued to fight to make our chemical plants safer.…”