[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 146 (Friday, August 14, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E759]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING KENT CHRISTENSEN'S DISTINGUISHED CAREER IN THE 
                      CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE

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                            HON. ADAM SMITH

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, August 14, 2020

  Mr. SMITH of Washington. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and 
recognize Kent Christensen, who retired at the end of July after 34 
years of exceptional service to the Congress at the Congressional 
Budget Office. Kent began his Congressional career in CBO's Budget 
Analysis Division in 1986 where he worked as a principal analyst in the 
Defense, International Affairs, and Veterans' Affairs Cost Estimates 
Unit.
  During his time at CBO, Kent was recognized as an exceptionally 
thoughtful and knowledgeable analyst. As one of the longest tenured 
members of CBO's Budget Analysis Division, he accrued extensive 
knowledge of the programs and accounts in his portfolio and a broad 
understanding of many other federal programs and the federal budget 
process in general. Kent was a valued colleague, passing along his 
knowledge to new and experienced analysts alike and encouraging a 
supportive environment where analysts respect each other and work well 
together.
  Kent has also earned the respect of his counterparts on the staffs of 
the Armed Services, Budget, and Appropriations committees thanks to his 
thoroughness, meticulous attention to detail, and incredible memory. He 
worked closely with the staff of the Armed Services Committees for more 
than three decades, particularly on annual proposals of the National 
Defense Authorization Act. His acumen when estimating the budgetary 
effects of and providing technical feedback on legislative proposals 
has helped ensure enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act 
each year.
  With his departure, the Congressional Budget Office loses a great 
asset. Over the past 34 years, CBO--and by extension, the Congress 
itself--has been fortunate to enjoy the dedication and insight that 
Kent has brought to his work. I know my colleagues join me in extending 
our thanks and appreciation to Kent for his service to our nation and 
our very best wishes for a happy and productive retirement.
  Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure to congratulate Kent Christensen on 
his well-earned retirement from the Congressional Budget Office and 
recognize his outstanding work on the National Defense Authorization 
Act.

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