[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 6 (Thursday, January 11, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H67]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           HONORING ED SMITH

  (Ms. BUDZINSKI asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. BUDZINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember a tireless 
champion for working people, a mentor, a dear friend, and a wonderful 
human being, Ed Smith, a native of southern Illinois and a lifelong 
supporter of workers.
  Ed Smith made a difference and inspired so many, including myself. 
When I needed a place to stay during the Kerry-Edwards campaign in 
2004, Ed and his wife, Betty, took me in. I will always remember Ed 
waiting up most evenings to have a beer and talk about the latest 
happenings on the campaign trail.
  He loved politics, and he had the best instincts of anyone I have 
met. I have leaned on him for advice in every step of my career since.
  When I got to Congress and before deciding to run, Ed was one of the 
very first people to be on board. You never forget the people that 
believe in you, especially when you have your own doubts.
  Ed was special to so many people because he himself was a special 
person--always generous, smart, kind, dedicated, and full of wisdom.

  Ed was like a father to me, and I will miss him so much.
  Rest in power, my dear friend.

                          ____________________