[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 5 (Tuesday, February 3, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S330]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          SENATOR JOHN BURTON

 Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, today I want to congratulate 
California State Senator John Burton as he assumes the role of 
President Pro Tempore of the California State Senate.
  When I was first elected to the U.S. Congress in 1983, it was the 
seat of Congressman John Burton in which I served.
  Then, as now, I never forgot his advice to me: ``Believe in yourself, 
follow your heart, and don't be afraid.''
  That advice has never let me down.
  Senator John Burton is an inspiration to many people. His life and 
success are triumphs of hope and determination.
  It is a widely known fact that Senator Burton struggled with 
addiction in the past and had to step back from politics for a time to 
reclaim his life.
  John Burton earned his way back into the political life of California 
much in the way that he first entered it--as a champion of people too 
often overlooked or undervalued.
  John Burton's career is a testament to the virtues of loyalty, 
consistency, courage and service. For all his work and spirit have 
meant to those he has touched, it is no wonder his colleagues elected 
him to lead them in the California Senate.
  Even though I can't believe I have to call him ``Mr. President,'' as 
a United States Senator, I couldn't be more proud!

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