Earl Blumenauer: “I have been thinking a great deal about that these days, just finishing reading a biography of Tip O'Neill in which Joe…”

“I have been thinking a great deal about that these days, just finishing reading a biography of Tip O'Neill in which Joe Moakley was prominently featured. During the last 30 years, Joe Moakley has left his mark. He left his mark on his district to be sure in a physical sense; and we have found out in this last week again, spiritually. He left his mark on hundreds of pieces of legislation during his long tenure on the Committee on Rules. He left his mark in the area of foreign affairs. Just as he helped speed El Salvador's transition to democracy, in recent years he was helping evolve a more rational United States policy toward Cuba with his meetings with Castro and the Pope. But it is here in the House where Joe Moakley's legacy will be most strongly felt. In the 5 years I have been a Member of this Chamber, I have never heard an unkind word or an unfair word from him or about him. But he never modified his principled politics, his strong convictions or his gentle manner, offering his friendship and humor until his last minute as a Member of this Chamber.”