Jeb Hensarling: “I thank the gentlelady for yielding to me. Mr. Speaker, an hour ago, I had no idea that I would be on the House floor to…”

“I thank the gentlelady for yielding to me. Mr. Speaker, an hour ago, I had no idea that I would be on the House floor to witness the farewell speeches of two giants who have served in this institution. In many ways, Mr. Speaker, I approach my comments tonight with trepidation because my voice is most inadequate and unprepared for this moment. The term ``happy warrior'' was used. The gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Flake), I have never known him not to have a smile on his face. Mr. Speaker, if there was one individual who summed up the phrase that one man in the right makes a majority, it's the gentleman from Arizona, Jeff Flake. Mr. Speaker, I have no doubt whatsoever that the other body will never be the same when the gentleman from Arizona steps into that other Chamber--because of his leadership. Many come here and serve. They speak with eloquence. They represent their values. They represent their constituents. But, Mr. Speaker, not all that many leave this institution and can look themselves in the mirror and know they have made a difference. The gentleman from Arizona has made a difference in the people's House and how the peoples's money has been spent. Mr. Speaker, it's a challenging time in our Nation's history. There's much turmoil. I know many question Madison's genius--perhaps mad genius--in providing for this thing called divided government.…”