Political Quotes

“I rise tonight to wish Ronald Reagan, one of this country's, indeed, one of the world's, great leaders, a happy 85th birthday. The ``Gipper'' and his family--and friends joining across the world--will celebrate his birthday on Saturday. As a Senator in my first term, when President Reagan came to Washington, I found his vision, forthrightness and high principles, to be measures by which all elected officials can aspire. Ronald Reagan's faith in God and his tremendous belief in the common sense of the American people, were sources of great strength and wisdom. His courage and willingness to stand up for what he believed in were admired by friend and foe alike. I am proud to say that I consider Ronald Reagan not just a friend, but a teacher and mentor to me and many other Senators back in our early Senate career. I fondly recall our times together, especially while we were riding horses over my Atoka farm. Our conversations varied from personal stories to serious discussions about the threat of the former Soviet Empire and America's place in the world as a protector of freedom and Democracy. His humor paralleled that of Will Rogers. Mr. President, I am very proud of the fact that next year, in my home State, the Newport News Shipyard will lay the keel of the Navy's newest aircraft carrier, the U.S.S. Ronald Reagan.”