[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 141 (Thursday, October 10, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1480-E1481]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING SENATOR ROD GRAMS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. COLLIN C. PETERSON

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 10, 2013

  Mr. PETERSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a friend and 
colleague, long time Minnesota Senator Rod Grams, who passed away 
Tuesday night losing his fight against colon cancer.
  Rod Grams and I came to Washington at roughly the same time. He 
served on the Banking and Finance committees while I served on the 
Agriculture and Government Operations committees.
  Everyone knew Senator Grams as being a conservative member of the 
Republican Party.

[[Page E1481]]

He was often times juxtaposed against the other Minnesota Senator, Paul 
Wellstone on the extreme left. Early on we discovered that we were both 
fiscal conservatives and almost immediately found common ground on 
economic issues.
  Although conservative, Senator Grams was always searching for common 
ground and had a willingness to discuss his position with folks. Known 
for his humble demeanor, Rod Grams quickly became known for one of his 
greatest achievements, the passage of a $500-per-child income tax 
credit that he shepherded through Congress and into law in 1997.
  I was struck by his dedication to serving others even in remote parts 
of the State. I remember during the 1997 floods in the Red River 
Valley, although he showed up in a finely pressed suit and dress shoes, 
Senator Grams quickly threw himself into the East Grand Forks flood 
recovery, mud and all. From that day on he had a constant presence in 
my District and also realized he doesn't need to wear a suit 
everywhere.
  Senator Grams was a distinguished public servant and a true model of 
what serving means. He knew when to hold the line and when to work with 
others. He is a true example of leadership. Senator Grams will be 
missed in Minnesota politics and I extend my deepest sympathies to the 
Senator's family and friends.

                          ____________________