Political Quotes

“I rise today to honor a true trailblazer, my colleague Senator Barbara Mikulski. Earlier this month, she crossed a major milestone by becoming the longest serving woman in Congress. Before she set her sights on Congress, Senator Mikulski worked as a community activist, social worker, and a member of the Baltimore City Council. In 1977, she was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Maryland's Third Congressional District. At that time, she was one of only 21 women serving in Congress. She never let any misguided stereotypes or long odds slow her down. Ten years later, she won her first race for the U.S. Senate and in the process became the first Democratic woman elected to this Chamber from the State of Maryland. She immediately lent her voice to issues like education, health care, and national service. Along the way, she has given a voice not only to families and the middle class but also sent a powerful message to women all across this Nation. If there were ever any doubt, they now know for sure that they deserve a seat at the table in Congress. And her message is being heard. Since Senator Mikulski first was elected to the House of Representatives, the number of women serving in Congress today has increased to 92. I have gotten to know Barbara well, especially through our work on the Senate Appropriations Committee. I know she would rather we focus on her accomplishments regardless of her gender, but Senator Mikulski has blazed an important path.…”