[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 152 (Wednesday, September 17, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E869]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF FORMER ILLINOIS GOVERNOR JIM EDGAR

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. RAJA KRISHNAMOORTHI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 17, 2025

  Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and 
legacy of former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar.
  Born in Oklahoma but raised in Charleston, Illinois, Governor Edgar 
was shaped by the values of family, hard work, and service. The 
youngest of three boys, raised by his mother Betty, he found his 
calling early. Elected to class office in the second grade, he never 
let go of his passion for public service.
  From those humble beginnings, he went on to a career that changed 
Illinois for the better. He first entered public selvice in 1968 as a 
top aide to leaders in the Illinois House and Senate, then was elected 
to the Illinois House, later becoming Secretary of State, and 
eventually the 38th Governor of Illinois. In every role, he worked not 
for headlines but for results. He strengthened DUI laws, required 
mandatory auto insurance, reformed child-care standards, improved 
Chicago's schools, and restored Illinois's fiscal health--leaving 
office with a balanced budget and a surplus.
  But what stood out most about Governor Edgar was not only the 
policies he championed, but the way he led. He always put people before 
politics. He earned trust across party lines and across the state, 
carrying 101 of 102 counties in his reelection, including Cook County. 
That trust came not from partisanship, but from his integrity, 
humility, and a level head in moments of challenge. Even after leaving 
office, Governor Edgar continued to give back. He devoted himself to 
mentoring young leaders from both parties, believing that democracy is 
strongest when we work together with respect and compassion. He lived 
by those values every day, and in doing so, set an example for all of 
us.
  Governor Edgar is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda, who was his 
full partner in public and political life. As First Lady, she 
championed issues to improve the lives of women and children across 
Illinois. Together they raised two children, Elizabeth and Brad, and 
delighted in their grandchildren. His family, like his public service, 
is a testament to his devotion and love.
  Mr. Speaker, Illinois has lost one of its finest statesmen. But his 
legacy endures, reminding us that honesty, decency, and good government 
are not old-fashioned ideals; they are timeless ones. I am honored to 
celebrate his life today, and I ask my colleagues to join me in 
remembering Governor Jim Edgar's remarkable service and the lasting 
example he leaves behind.

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