[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 134 (Wednesday, September 25, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S11266]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO SENATOR PAUL SIMON

  Mr. EXON. Mr. President, I rise today to say a few words regarding 
the retirement of the senior Senator from Illinois, Paul Simon.
  Paul Simon was first elected to the Senate in 1984 and I have been 
honored to serve with him for the past 12 years. Before entering the 
Senate, Paul Simon represented his constituents as a Member of the 
House of Representatives for 10 years. He will truly be missed by the 
people of Illinois and his colleagues in the Senate.
  Over the years I have worked with Senator Simon on the Budget 
Committee. Despite his reputation as a compassionate liberal who 
believes the Federal Government has an important role to play in the 
lives of Americans, Senator Simon has not shied away from following his 
personal convictions, even if it meant going against the majority of 
his party.
  Senator Simon has been a leading proponent of a constitutional 
amendment to require the Federal Government to balance the budget each 
year. He has been guided by his common sense, midwestern views on 
living within your means. I, too, have been a long-time proponent of a 
balanced budget constitutional amendment. Senator Simon's ability to 
work with Members on both sides of the aisle is unfortunately a 
diminishing quality among Members of this body.
  Paul Simon has been a strong supporter of free speech as a Senator. 
He is an author and began his career as a newspaper editor and 
publisher. Despite his background, Senator Simon has also been willing 
to criticize the television broadcasters over the excessive amount of 
violent programming.
  Paul Simon has a special connection to my State of Nebraska. He was a 
student at Dana College in Blair, NE. I know that Dana College 
appreciates his continued interest in the students and the college over 
the years.
  I commend Senator Paul Simon for his many years of dedicated service 
to the people of Illinois. Pat and I wish him the very best in his 
retirement.

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