[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 134 (Friday, July 30, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Page S5203]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]



                         Remembering Carl Levin

  Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I am sorry to begin my remarks today 
with a third Senate eulogy for this week alone.
  Last evening, we received word that our former colleague from 
Michigan, Senator Carl Levin, passed away at the age of 87. Carl's 
fellow Michiganders elected and reelected him six times. He was the 
longest serving Senator from Michigan ever. His home State liked what 
they had in this passionate activist turned attorney, turned public 
servant. His dutiful, diligent, and detail-oriented approach led 
Senator Levin to build expertise and win respect across a huge range of 
issues.
  The pinnacle of our colleague's career was his years atop the Senate 
Armed Services Committee. I certainly did not always reach the same 
conclusions that Carl did, but his independence, his genuine humble 
curiosity, and his affection for the men and women who wear the uniform 
were impossible to dispute.
  He was earnest. He was solid, forthright, and devoted to the defense 
of our Nation in ways that he thought best.
  I especially admired Carl's courageous, consistent defense of the 
Senate filibuster and the unique structures that define this 
institution. He never let short-term political facts cloud his long-
term judgment in that crucial area.
  I know all of our condolences go out to Barbara and the entire Levin 
family today and to all Senators, staff, and friends who will miss our 
colleague.