[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 136 (Tuesday, September 5, 1995)]
[Senate]
[Page S12556]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       ANNOUNCEMENT OF RETIREMENT

  Mr. PELL. Mr. President, I wish to state that this morning in 
Providence I announced my decision not to seek reelection to the Senate 
next year.
  This afternoon, I wanted to formally make that decision known to my 
colleagues, and to share with you all the thoughts I conveyed to my 
Rhode Island constituents.
  This was not an easy decision for me. I regret that it is fashionable 
today to malign the Congress, to malign the Federal Government, and to 
malign those of us who serve the public in elective office.
  I, however, consider this U.S. Senate a marvelous institution full of 
talented and committed men and women who, contrary to public belief, 
are dedicated to serving our constituents and to improving the quality 
of our national life.
  And I continue to believe that government--and the Federal Government 
in particular--can, should, and does make a positive impact on the 
lives of most Americans. Federal programs and agencies do not always 
work perfectly, and many need reform. But they were conceived to help 
people, and I believe most continue to do so.
  When you believe as strongly as I do in the value of good government 
and see some of its virtues under attack, there is a great temptation 
to continue to serve and to fight for those values and those programs 
that we consider vital.
  As to my health, I have been assured that there is no medical barrier 
to my seeking reelection and serving another 6-year term. I feel strong 
and healthy and continue my 2-mile runs.
  However, I decided not to be a candidate for reelection.
  There is a natural time for all life's adventures to come to an end, 
and this period of 36 years would seem to me about the right time for 
my service in the Senate to end.
  I know I will miss more than anything else the people of Rhode Island 
which it has been my pleasure to serve these years. They are fine, 
caring people who put their trust in me all these years, tolerated my 
eccentricities, and gave me great affection. And I only pray that I 
repaid their trust and served them faithfully.
  And I will particularly miss this wonderful Senate and you, the men 
and women who serve here. Let me say again, almost without exception, 
each of us believes he or she can make a positive difference to our 
Nation's well-being.
  This Senate seat from my State has been held for six decades by a 
forward-thinking Democrat, first by Theodore Francis Green, and then by 
me. And I want to make it clear today that I am intent on doing all I 
can to ensure that another progressive Democrat is elected to fill this 
seat.
  And I also plan to do what I can to assist in the reelection of 
President Clinton, whom I consider a sadly underrated and really quite 
successful President. He has served our country with intelligence and 
vision and passion, and I firmly believe he deserves another term.
  Beyond that, I have no concrete plans. I will stay active, stay 
engaged in some kind of public service and will continue to cherish my 
association with Rhode Island and its wonderful people.
  I yield the floor.
  Mr. EXON addressed the Chair.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Nebraska.
  Mr. EXON. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that morning 
business be continued for whatever time is necessary for any Senator 
who wishes to make remarks with regard to the announcement that we have 
just heard from the distinguished Senator from Rhode Island.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

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