Louise Slaughter: “today I join with my fellow colleagues to pay tribute to a truly great American, the late Secretary of Commerce, Ron…”

“today I join with my fellow colleagues to pay tribute to a truly great American, the late Secretary of Commerce, Ron Brown. To many of us, Ron Brown was not only a cabinet member with an impressive record of accomplishment, but he was also a dynamic party leader, a trailblazer in the business world, a ferocious advocate for the business community as well as those in need, a role-model for blacks and whites alike, and a dear friend. I will remember Ron for his charming and captivating persona, for his astute mind, and for his love of country. Ron Brown was full of energy and enthusiasm in each endeavor that he undertook. As Chair of the Democratic National Committee, Ron utilized his skills in bringing people together and motivating them to work toward a common goal, and that propelled the Democratic party to victory in 1992. In his capacity as Commerce Secretary, Ron Brown was masterful in seeking out and opening up new markets to U.S. businesses.”