Thomas Foley: “I come to the floor as my colleagues have before me saddened by the death of one of our Nation's greatest leaders and…”

“I come to the floor as my colleagues have before me saddened by the death of one of our Nation's greatest leaders and humbled by the far-reaching impact his life has had on millions of people throughout the world. He was a great man and a gentle spirit. Optimistic, cheerful in service and buoyed by the confidence that comes with unwavering conviction, President Reagan reignited the feeling of promise for this country. Ronald Reagan is the reason I became a Republican. And for many Democrats, he was the pathway to the Republican Party. He reminded us all that government cannot replace individual empowerment and told us in 1995 that every dollar the Federal Government does not take from us, every decision it does not make for us will make our economy stronger, our lives more abundant, and our future more free. We join together with people across the globe in mourning the loss of Ronald Reagan. His decisive leadership during the twilight years of the Cold War indeed made him a beacon of hope for freedom-loving people throughout the world. Our thoughts and prayers and our love go out to Mrs. Reagan and the entire family. Because of Ronald Reagan our Nation is stronger and our future is more free. Here we honor him and are continually working toward the dreamed-of-day he spoke of when no one wields a sword and no one drags a chain.”