On the recordDecember 20, 2010
I rise today to offer some remarks on the departure of my friend, the junior Senator from Indiana. Senator Evan Bayh has served the good people of his State for two full terms and will be leaving the Senate at the end of this session. He will most certainly be missed. Senator Bayh was born in Shirkieville, IN, in 1955. He is, of course, the son of the distinguished Senator Birch Bayh, who served in this Chamber for 18 years. Evan attended college at Indiana University, where he graduated with honors. He received his law degree from the University of Virginia. After graduating from law school and serving a year as a clerk to a Federal judge, Evan returned to Indiana to go into private law practice. Senator Bayh's career in public service began in 1986, when he was elected to serve as Indiana's secretary of State. He held that position for 2 years before he was elected Governor of Indiana in 1988. As Governor, Senator Bayh earned a reputation as a fiscal conservative and a voice of moderation. He was able to work with members of both parties to achieve the best results for the people of Indiana. During his tenure, taxes in Indiana remained low, while the State enjoyed multiple budget surpluses. He also had great successes in areas such as education, crime, and job creation. Indeed, he was a very effective Governor throughout his two terms in office.
