Political Quotes

“Mr. President, there are few times in the history of this institution when one Senator, a singularly iconic leader, comes along and reminds us of what it means to be a U.S. Senator and what it means to represent the very best of what this Nation stands for and to do it, as he always did, with the utmost dignity, honor, pride, and integrity. I am deeply saddened to have to speak to the passing of a true American hero. He was someone who inspired so many of us in the Senate. His ideals and sense of justice were always on display. The passing of Senator Inouye leaves a painful void in the leadership of this body. In so many ways, the life and sacrifice of Senator Inouye embodies the essence of the ``greatest generation.'' Even when faced with the suffering, indignity, and humiliation of an internment camp, he did not allow his heart to be turned or his love and commitment to his country to be diminished. Justice was a constant theme in his life. He represented the challenges faced by his Hawaiian people since statehood, when he became its first representative in the U.S. Congress. We had a close bond when it came to our concern for minorities in our country. Because of the struggles in his life, he understood the struggles in both of our communities. He felt a kinship to the Hispanic community and shared the community's hopes and aspirations.…”