Political Quotes

“Mr. President, on July 16, 2007--a while back--I hired a legislative assistant to handle our healthcare and education policy. I didn't know it then, but this new member of my team, this native of Hawaii who came to work for a Senator from New York--she did live in New York for a while and went to high school there. I always tease her about the high school she went to, Brearley--would, in time, become my legislative director. She would stay with my team not just for years but for almost two decades--two decades. She would become one of the most talented, most effective, and most trusted advisers I ever, ever had--and I have had a lot of good ones--this person, of course, who is sitting next to me right here, Meghan Taira, the best legislative guru I could have ever asked for, the best legislative director in the business. That says a lot because there have been a lot of good ones there too. Tomorrow, after 18 wonderful years, Meghan will move on from her time in the Senate. She sat in this chair many times directing me, helping the Senate move forward. This will be her last time sitting in that chair, and we are the lesser for it because she is so great. We won't dwell on the goodbyes--that is too bittersweet--and instead we will all say thank you to Meghan Taira. Thank you for 18 wonderful years--18, wow, amazing. Now, Meghan, one thing I will say, and you will shake your head in agreement, thank you for putting up with me--not so easy--every day, all day, on the phone.…”