[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E782]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF LYNN BARTELS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DIANA DeGETTE

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, August 10, 2026

  Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy 
of Lynn Bartels, a dear friend and one of Colorado's most respected and 
influential journalists.
  For more than two decades, Lynn chronicled the people, events, and 
decisions that shaped our state. She possessed an insatiable curiosity, 
a relentless pursuit of the truth, and an unmatched ability to connect 
with people from every walk of life.
  Whether covering governors, senators, legislators, or local 
officials, she approached every story with tenacity, fairness, and 
integrity. She held public officials accountable without losing sight 
of their humanity. Colleagues and elected leaders alike admired her 
encyclopedic knowledge of Colorado politics, her sharp memory, and her 
remarkable network of sources. Yet beyond her professional 
accomplishments, it was her authenticity, warmth, and genuine interest 
in people that earned her widespread admiration and trust.
  What set Lynn apart was her unwavering commitment to fairness. She 
did not play favorites, nor did she allow partisanship to shape her 
reporting. Democrats, Republicans, and Independents knew they would 
receive the same honest treatment from Lynn. Even those who found 
themselves the subject of a difficult story respected her because they 
knew she was guided by a steadfast commitment to the facts and to the 
public she served.
  Lynn's influence extended far beyond the newsroom. After her 
distinguished career in journalism, she continued serving Colorado in 
state government, bringing the same intelligence, energy, humor, and 
dedication that had defined her reporting. She remained a trusted 
colleague, mentor, and friend to countless individuals across the 
political spectrum. Her unique ability to build relationships, foster 
understanding, and communicate complex issues made her an indispensable 
part of Colorado's civic life.
  As we remember Lynn Bartels, we celebrate not only an exceptional 
journalist but also an exceptional friend and mentor who will be deeply 
missed. Her infectious personality, quick wit, compassion, and passion 
for public service touched generations of Coloradans. She leaves behind 
a legacy of excellence, fairness, and humanity that will continue to 
inspire those who follow in her footsteps. Although Lynn is no longer 
with us, her impact endures in the stories she told, the people she 
influenced, the leaders she held accountable, and the stronger, better-
informed Colorado she helped build.
  I extend my heartfelt condolences to Lynn's family, friends, and all 
who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace.

                          ____________________