[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 172 (Wednesday, December 12, 2001)]
[House]
[Pages H9322-H9323]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         MAJORITY LEADER ARMEY

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentleman from Kansas (Mr. Tiahrt) is recognized for 5 minutes.
  Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, today Majority Leader Dick Armey announced 
that he would not run for reelection. I received this news with mixed 
emotions.
  First, I am very happy for Dick Armey because he is moving to the 
next phase of his life where he will continue to pursue his dreams. 
This morning he fondly spoke of his wife Susan and how he was looking 
forward to spending more time at home with her. The gentleman from 
Texas spoke of her admiringly and spoke of the sacrifice that she has 
made, being a spouse of a Member of Congress. We all stood and 
applauded when Susan Armey was recognized. We stood because each of us 
knew what our spouses have endured--the long hours, the brutal 
campaigns, the time away from our families. We know what Susan has 
endured.
  Dick and Susan Armey will get to spend more time together, and I am 
very happy for them. But also, Mr. Speaker, I am saddened by the 
gentleman from Texas' announcement. I am saddened because I consider 
him a friend and I respect what he has accomplished, but I will miss 
him and I wonder who will fill the void. Dick Armey has fought for so 
many things that have made this a better place to live: Welfare reform 
that has improved the lives of more than 6 million Americans who are 
working today and pursuing their dreams. It was Dick Armey who fought 
so hard for Congress to balance the budget, and finally we see a 
surplus for the first time in a generation. It was Dick Armey who 
fought for a flatter, fairer tax system for Americans.

[[Page H9323]]

  Yes, Mr. Speaker, I am going to miss Dick Armey when he leaves. I am 
going to miss my friend. Thank you, Dick, for carrying on the banner, 
for accomplishing so much, making life in America better for me and for 
my children.
  God bless you and God bless America.

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