[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 215 (Friday, December 18, 2020)]
[Senate]
[Page S7702]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                         TRIBUTE TO TODD RUCKEL

  Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, at the end of last month, my friend 
Todd Ruckel closed out 8 impressive years of leadership as Lewis County 
judge-executive. This financial consultant turned public servant has 
given so much to his community. I would like to take a moment today to 
join Todd's admirers in thanking him for his service.
  As a former county judge-executive myself, I know just how close Todd 
is with his constituents. He hears their stories and has been 
instrumental in Lewis County's success. It is a difficult assignment 
but one with many rewards for a job well done. Todd ends his time in 
office with the respect of his colleagues and the gratitude of the 
families he served so well. He was even named the Kentucky Emergency 
Management Judge-Executive of the Year in 2017 for his work to keep his 
community safe.
  My team and I have worked with Todd over the years. In particular, we 
secured over $1 million from the Appalachian Regional Commission to 
upgrade the water infrastructure in Lewis County. It is just a snapshot 
of Todd's accomplishments for the families who placed their trust in 
him.
  Unfortunately, the pain caused by the coronavirus this past year has 
led to many challenges for local officials and communities. Todd 
recognized the danger early on. He took steps to protect families 
throughout Lewis County. I am proud the CARES Act delivered more than 
$2 million to the community, including to support Todd's team.
  Although the transition has begun toward new leadership in Lewis 
County, Todd is still working for Kentucky. He is joining the Kentucky 
County Judge-Executive Association as its new executive director. Now, 
Todd can use his talents to help local officials in communities across 
the Bluegrass State.
  I am sure everyone in the Lewis County courthouse is sad to see Todd 
and his wife Sandy go, but the results of his leadership will remain. 
On behalf of the Senate, I am grateful for Todd's continued service to 
Kentucky. We extend our best wishes and congratulate him on an 
accomplished career for Kentucky.

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