Jeff Bingaman: “we have all seen the news that our friend and colleague, Pete Domenici, is planning to announce today that he will…”

“we have all seen the news that our friend and colleague, Pete Domenici, is planning to announce today that he will retire from the Senate at the conclusion of his term. Senator Domenici called me yesterday afternoon to tell me of this decision. My reaction was one of surprise first, and then that gave way to admiration and appreciation for this man's decision to conclude his distinguished career of public service on his own terms. He and his wife Nancy are traveling to Albuquerque this morning for the announcement this afternoon. This is a great gesture to the people of New Mexico, and in New Mexico the Domenicis will be greeted with the affection and respect which they richly deserve. When I arrived in the Senate in 1983, Pete Domenici was then a 10-year veteran of this place, and he was here to welcome me at that time. In his 34 years in the Senate, Pete has earned a reputation as a fierce and effective champion for New Mexico. While he and I have not agreed on some issues, I have never questioned his commitment to do what he believed was right for our State and for this country. Today, and during his entire Senate career, Pete has achieved what all of us try to achieve; that is, to be effective in getting results in Washington, while also staying close to the people who have sent us here to represent them.”