Pete Sessions: “I join all of my colleagues, the staff of the Senate, the people of Georgia, citizens across America and around the…”

“I join all of my colleagues, the staff of the Senate, the people of Georgia, citizens across America and around the world in mourning the death of Paul Coverdell. A thoroughly decent human being, he worked long and hard for what he thought was right. His career reflected the combination of principle and effective leadership that were characteristic of the way he did business. In his quiet way, he managed to navigate some very difficult waters, keeping his equanimity and dignity intact, while gaining not only his goal, but the respect of all who associated with him. Many in the Senate can claim friendships with him that extend to several decades. I met him only after he was elected to the Senate in 1992, but from the first, I was impressed by the same things his friends loved and admired in him--his kindness, his sense of humor, and his work ethic. A skilled legislator, he was often asked by the leadership to help move matters along. He did this in concert with colleagues on both sides of the aisle, always managing to 'disagree without being disagreeable.' He was a public servant of the highest order. His family, friends, staff, constituents, and colleagues certainly know what has been lost for we know what he was and what he did with his life. He will be missed in so many circles, but his influence and his good works will continue.”