[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 84 (Monday, June 10, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S5987]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO AL SIMPSON

  Mr. DOLE. Mr. President, as I look back on my years in the Senate, 
there are many Members to whom I am indebted for the friendship and 
support they have given me. I can think of no better friend, however, 
and no more reliable ally than Al Simpson.
  As all Members know, Al served for 10 years as Republican whip. And 
no doubt about it, he made being Republican leader a much easier job. 
Every time I needed help, every time there was work to be done, every 
time something was needed as soon as possible, Al Simpson was there, 
getting the job done, and doing it with the one of a kind sense of 
humor that is his trademark.
  Al Simpson is not only one of the wittiest men in Washington, he is 
also one of the most courageous.
  From immigration to entitlement reform, he has made a habit of 
tackling the toughest and most controversial of issues, calling them as 
he sees them, and letting the cards fall where they may.
  A few weeks back, much of Washington gathered to salute Al Simpson. 
Well, actually, much of Washington gathered to salute Al's wife, Ann. I 
regret that a delayed flight kept me from attending what by all reports 
was a wonderful evening. Speaker after speaker--Republicans and 
Democrats alike--rose to salute Al and Ann for all they have done for 
this institution and this city.
  The highlight of the event was when former President George Bush 
offered an emotional tribute to the man who he called his best friend 
in the Senate. While Al's retirement means that President Bush is 
gaining a fishing buddy, it means that the Senate is losing one of its 
finest.
  I have said before that Al Simpson embodies the American spirit many 
associate with the American cowboy. He is honest, independent, and he 
always judges people not by money or position--but by character.
  It was once written that ``out where the handclasp's a little 
stronger, out where the smile dwells a little longer, that is where the 
West begins.''
  If that is the case, then the fact of the matter is that the West 
begins wherever Al Simpson is, because wherever he goes, he brings 
handclasps and smiles with him.

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