Political Quotes

“I am deeply moved by the thoughtful remarks of my longtime friend. I express my everlasting gratitude first and foremost for that friendship and, indeed, the friendship of your father, commander and chief of the U.S. Forces in the Pacific, who helped guide me in those difficult days of Vietnam when I was entrusted with the Department of the Navy. I say to my friend, it is my fervent hope when I step down as chairman, as prescribed by the rules of our caucus, I will have the privilege to nominate you to become the next chairman of the Armed Services Committee. And I am confident that will be confirmed in our caucus and eventually by the full Senate and that you will lead this committee to greater levels and higher achievements, as has been the case of almost every step of your career. I wish you well and also your family, dear friend. Now, Mr. President, I believe we are going to turn to another amendment by the distinguished Senator from Arizona, and I am privileged to be a cosponsor of that amendment. I commend the Senator. This is a very important step that you are initiating with regard to the future of how financing the Department of Defense is handled in the Congress of the United States. I yield the floor.”