Kirk Watson: “Public service is the cornerstone of living democracy. That said, I do fervently believe it takes a special person to…”

“Public service is the cornerstone of living democracy. That said, I do fervently believe it takes a special person to give their life to serve the public. I stand before you to honor an individual who, for over 30 years, dedicated his life to public servitude, former California Lieutenant Governor, Leo T. McCarthy. Lieutenant Governor McCarthy was one who valued what was best for all of Californians, not just those that were of means and access. Much of this can be attributed to McCarthy's humane beginnings as the child of a poor immigrant family. It was during the time McCarthy's father, Daniel, opened a pub which became the community haven for the local Irish Catholic population, that young McCarthy became smitten with service. In his youth, McCarthy engaged in many service-oriented activities, which included early studies for the priesthood and service within the United States Air Force. After earning his law degree, he began a career in politics that spanned over three decades.”