[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 147 (Wednesday, September 5, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Page S6035]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         WELCOMING SENATOR KYL

  Mr. McCONNELL. Madam President, over the weekend, Senator McCain was 
laid to rest at Annapolis. Our dear friend left a towering legacy of 
service and sacrifice. As Senator Graham reminded us last week, while 
none of us can hope to fill his shoes, we should all strive to follow 
in his footsteps. Today, the great State of Arizona has sent us a 
successor who is as well-equipped as you could imagine to do just that.
  Our friend and former colleague, Senator Jon Kyl, is one of the most 
serious, most expert, and most effective legislators with whom I have 
had the pleasure of serving. In his 18 years of Senate service, he 
forcefully defended the interests of Arizonans on issues local, 
national, and international. He mastered the details of water and 
natural resource issues. He became a go-to point person on missile 
defense, nuclear modernization, strategy, and arms control. He built a 
reputation as a steady and energetic public servant who put his State 
and his country first.
  On a point of personal privilege, I am glad we will have Jon back 
with us. He has great judgment and an even keel. He is a team player, a 
true friend, and an inspiring example of what a Senator can and should 
be.
  It is a good thing, too, because Congress has a lot to accomplish in 
the coming weeks--like finalizing appropriations bills, completing our 
consideration of Judge Kavanaugh, and confirming more of the 
President's qualified nominees. It is going to be all hands on deck for 
the American people. I could not be happier that this new, not-so-
junior Senator from Arizona will be here to help us through this 
period.

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