Orrin Hatch: “I wish to say a few words about my colleague Jim DeMint. We have had a lot of really good people during my service here…”

“I wish to say a few words about my colleague Jim DeMint. We have had a lot of really good people during my service here on both sides of the aisle. I have friends who have passed on and who made such a difference around here. I have to say that Jim DeMint has been a rock-ribbed conservative who I think has made a great difference in this body and for whom I have a lot of respect. I have profound gratitude that he has fought as hard as he has for the principles he believes in, most of which I believe in. I wish him Godspeed as he works over at the Heritage Foundation. I can't imagine a better place for somebody who loves the issues, wants to play a role, has played a role, understands this body, understands the political nature of this country, and has been very active in trying to change this country for the better. Jim has those kinds of abilities. I wish him well, and I sure hope he will have a great time while he is over at the Heritage Foundation. I have great respect for him. I think most people who really know him have great respect for him. I always respect people who really do what they believe, and Jim DeMint has exemplified that as well as anybody I know. ____________________”