Political Quotes

“I want to take an opportunity to salute and thank and commend my colleagues who are departing. Mark Kirk Mr. President, Senator Kirk, my colleague from Illinois, just finished his remarks. Mark and I had the opportunity and the privilege to work on many things together. He is a Navy commander. He never lets me forget that. He always called me Major; I always called him Commander. He served the State of Illinois with great integrity, great energy, and great spirit, and we thank him for that very much. Thank you for your service to the Nation in the uniform of the United States Navy. We also have other colleagues departing: Senator Ayotte from New Hampshire; Senator Boxer of California, Senator Coats of Indiana; as I mentioned, Senator Kirk of Illinois; Senator Mikulski of Maryland; Senator Reid of Nevada; and Senator Vitter of Louisiana. Each has brought passion in their work to best serve their constituents, and the institution of the Senate and the Nation are better for this service. I am better for knowing them, working with them, and having the opportunity to share with them, and I want to thank them for their service. Let me mention a few words with respect to all of these distinguished Senators. Kelly Ayotte Mr. President, Kelly Ayotte and I worked together for many years on the Armed Services Committee. What she brought was an unparalleled commitment to and passion for the men and women who wear the uniform of the United States.…”