[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 7 (Tuesday, January 13, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E77]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


          TRIBUTE TO U.S. SENATOR MITCH McCONNELL OF KENTUCKY

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                           HON. HAROLD ROGERS

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 13, 2009

  Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to 
U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell, a true statesman, who now holds the 
prestigious record as Kentucky's longest serving U.S. Senator. It is 
truly an honor for the Commonwealth of Kentucky to be served by such an 
accomplished and determined leader.
  I remember the early days when Mitch first arrived in Washington, 
D.C., wandering the halls of Congress, but leaning on his experience as 
a local Judge-Executive in Jefferson County seeking compromise and 
working to solve problems. Today he is the Republican Leader in the 
United States Senate and is known for his mastery of parliamentary 
procedure, his ability to unite the Senate Republicans--which is no 
small feat--and standing firm on his conservative principles.
  An advocate for Eastern Kentucky families, Mitch is a great friend of 
mine who understands the needs of the Bluegrass State and does 
everything he can to help those who need it most. Mitch is rightly 
credited for being an integral part of one of the greatest legislative 
achievements in Kentucky history, which were his efforts to pass the 
tobacco buyout. Many observers said the buyout would be impossible to 
arrange; however, Mitch dived in head first and with great focus was 
able to successfully push forward legislation that has allowed Kentucky 
farmers to transition to other crops and properly reimbursed quota 
holders. He should be proud of his efforts as he saved thousands of 
farmers and their families.
  Always wanting to move Kentucky forward, Mitch has worked tirelessly 
to strengthen higher education which has benefitted millions in the 
Bluegrass State. By improving our universities, Mitch has not only 
helped our students succeed but has helped to bolster communities, 
create new jobs and build a strong workforce for the Commonwealth. 
Kentucky's future leaders have been awarded many new opportunities 
thanks to Mitch.
  In addition to all he has done for the Commonwealth, Mitch is known 
as a fierce campaigner who did the seemingly impossible when he first 
defeated an incumbent Senator in 1984, and then went on to lay the 
foundation for the resurgence of the Kentucky Republican Party. 
Republican success within Kentucky is due in large part to Mitch's 
vision and hard work.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Senator 
Mitch McConnell and his accomplishment as Kentucky's longest serving 
Senator. He is truly a legend in the Commonwealth and I look forward to 
his continued successes.

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