On the recordSeptember 19, 2012
I want to recognize the distinguished service of my friend Bruce Black, the Chief Judge for the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico. Bruce has chosen to leave the Federal bench at the end of this month. His decision to retire is a loss for our State and for the Nation. But he has served our Nation with great distinction and ability. Bruce was appointed to be a district court judge by President Clinton in 1995. During the 17 years of his service in that position he has exemplified the integrity and high standards of fairness and impartiality which we strive for in our Federal judiciary. Throughout his years as a Federal judge he has never lost sight of the real-life effects of the court's decisions on the lives of those who come before the court. Bruce and his wife Mary have exciting plans for the next chapter of their lives. They are close friends to my wife Anne, and me. We wish them the very best in future years. ____________________
