[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 1]
[House]
[Pages 84-103]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




EXPRESSING SORROW OF THE HOUSE AT THE DEATH OF THE HONORABLE ROBERT T. 
        MATSUI, MEMBER OF CONGRESS FROM THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I offer a privileged resolution (H. Res. 11) 
and ask for its immediate consideration.
  The Clerk read the resolution, as follows:

                               H. Res. 11

       Resolved, That the House has heard with profound sorrow of 
     the death of the Honorable Robert T. Matsui, a Representative 
     from the State of California.
       Resolved, That a committee of such Members of the House as 
     the Speaker may designate, together with such Members of the 
     Senate as may be joined, be appointed to attend the funeral.
       Resolved, That the Sergeant-at-Arms of the House be 
     authorized and directed to take such steps as may be 
     necessary for carrying out the provisions of these 
     resolutions and that the necessary expenses in connection 
     therewith be paid out of applicable accounts of the House.
       Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions to 
     the Senate and transmit a copy thereof to the family of the 
     deceased.
       Resolved, That when the House adjourns today, it adjourn as 
     a further mark of respect to the memory of the deceased.

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gentleman from California (Mr. Stark) is 
recognized for 1 hour.
  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 30 minutes to the gentleman from 
California (Mr. Dreier), pending which I yield myself such time as I 
may consume.


                             General Leave

  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may 
have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks 
and include extraneous material on this resolution.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the 
gentleman from California?
  There was no objection.
  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, as the dean of the California delegation, I 
offer this privileged resolution expressing the profound sorrow of all 
of us within the House of Representatives at Bob Matsui's passing. I am 
honored to sponsor this resolution in an attempt to memorialize Bob's 
contributions to Congress and to our Nation.
  Like all of us, I was shocked to hear the news that someone as 
vibrant as Bob Matsui is no longer with us. He has been a forceful 
leader in Congress, and he will be missed. I will miss his counsel and 
his friendship, having been honored to serve with him during his time 
in Congress as a fellow Californian and on the Committee on Ways and 
Means.
  But first of all, my thoughts and condolences go to his family, Bob's 
wife Doris, his son Brian, daughter-in-law Amy, and granddaughter Anna.
  I just got around I guess to opening his Christmas card a day or so 
before the sad news came and was reminded of a night early on when 
Brian, who is now an adult with an adult life, and he could not have 
been more than 5 or 6 at the time, and he was at a reception with Bob 
and Doris and myself and choked on a chicken bone, and the 
consternation we all had, patting Brian on the back and getting him 
through the chicken bone incident. So as I say to Brian and to Doris, 
Bob's memory will live with them and give them great support as they 
move ahead in their lives.
  In his time here, Bob demonstrated and embodied the utmost integrity. 
He knew and understood the purpose, the greater purpose, really, which 
we in the House are entrusted with. He lived by and set high standards 
in public service. In a word, he was a statesman. He went through the 
experience of being interned during World War II, and it never made him 
bitter. He never lost his spirit. Rather, it gave him resolve for his 
own convictions and his sense of public service.
  He started in Sacramento after a brief career in law, and then he 
came to Congress in 1979, starting out with the Committee on the 
Judiciary and then with the Committee on Government Operations, and 
then later joining the Committee on Ways and Means

[[Page 85]]

where he really became our resident expert on Social Security and was 
active in trade and tax policy issues as well. He tackled those issues, 
as I am sure any of my colleagues who have discussed Social Security 
with him know, with sharp intellect, deep convictions, and compassion 
for what was right. But he was fair. He had a sense of humility and one 
of respect I think of his colleagues on both sides of the aisle.
  I do know one thing, that Bob Matsui would have wanted to be here to 
lead the Democrats in the fight to protect Social Security in this 
coming session of Congress. He was prepared for it. He was geared up 
for it. He had been spending his time over the last several weeks 
before his sad passing to lead us in the effort to protect Social 
Security. His convictions of compassion mark his work on behalf of 
disadvantaged children and families in our country as well.
  Bob championed expanded health care coverage for children and was a 
tireless advocate for child welfare. Indeed, he joined many of us in 
opposing our own administration during the welfare reform issues in 
1996, and he introduced key legislation to expand job training and 
education programs to help people in poverty. We lost that battle in 
1996, but he remained steadfast in his commitment to ensure that people 
got lifted out of poverty, not just kicked off the welfare rolls.
  So as the new year began, I had looked forward to his counsel and 
working with him side-by-side as it were on our committee on important 
issues.
  His spirit will continue to inspire us in the days ahead and with 
gratitude for all he has done, we will carry on his work and do all we 
can to honor his life and his contributions to the American people. I 
know that the House tonight will adjourn in his honor, and on New 
Year's he adjourned sine die. We say so long, old friend.
  Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
  Mr. Speaker, let me begin by expressing my appreciation to my 
California colleague (Mr. Stark). We have worked jointly on this 
resolution, and it is with a great deal of sadness obviously that we 
are here at this moment.
  We just completed the debate on the resolution that had to do with 
the loss of now it appears about 150,000 lives from the tsunami that 
has taken place in South and Southeast Asia. And then we come to the 
next resolution, talking about one man, an individual who has made a 
great contribution. And when you juxtapose the resolution with the loss 
of 150,000 lives and now we are talking about Bob Matsui, we cannot 
help but think about the fragility of life.
  Bob Matsui is an individual who offered so much to this institution, 
but he offered so much to me personally, just as I know he did to 
others of my colleagues who are going to be speaking tonight and many 
of those who are not going to be able to be here this evening.

                              {time}  1900

  The gentlewoman from California (Ms. Pelosi) in her statement when 
she was turning the gavel over to the gentleman from Illinois (Speaker 
Hastert) this morning I think said it very well when she talked about 
the combination of intellect and passion that Bob Matsui demonstrated 
in his life.
  We all know that Bob was a tremendous intellect, very thoughtful, 
very deliberative on issues that he tackled, but he also at the same 
time had a deeply felt passion in the pursuit of his agenda, and I will 
tell my colleagues that I shared that agenda in some areas and I shared 
his passion. I do not know that I have quite the intellect that Bob 
had, but I shared his passion.
  We worked together through the 1980s and the 1990s in pursuit of the 
global trade agenda, and I know there is a lot of controversy in this 
House on that issue, but Bob and I worked arm in arm to try and get 
Bill Clinton trade promotion authority. I remember the kind of energy 
and the thought that Bob put into this, and he had boundless energy 
when it came to this. He was a slight person, but boy, I will tell my 
colleagues, when he put his mind to an issue, he really was very, very 
diligent in pursuit of that.
  We worked together on a wide range of individual trade agreements, 
going back to the North American Free Trade Agreement. Every single 
year, Bob Matsui and I worked together to try and grant what we used to 
call most-favored nation trading status for the People's Republic of 
China, and then ultimately we worked together on the granting of 
permanent normal trade relations.
  I happen to believe that that vision that Bob had was a very positive 
one and has played a big role in improving the quality of life and the 
standard of living for people all over the world, and I think that when 
we look at this institution it is a tragic irony, I mean, that this has 
come. We are not only sad but we are very shocked.
  The gentleman from California (Mr. Stark) and I, Mr. Speaker, were 
just talking about the news and what Bob went through at the end 
because it did come as a great surprise to him and to Doris and to 
Brian and Amy and little Anna that he was going in for a checkup, and 
then it ended up, of course, that because of this infection he was 
going to not survive. So when this news came out it was a shock to all 
of us.
  I heard it just as I was getting on the airplane to fly back here on 
Sunday, and I was just taken and I could not help but think about 
immediately all of the great experiences that I had traveling, working 
on joint California issues, working, as I said, on the trade agenda and 
realizing how dedicated this guy was and what a horrible loss this will 
be for this institution and for us as individuals.
  So I join, as the gentleman from California (Mr. Stark) has just 
said, in extending personally my thoughts and prayers to Doris and 
Brian and his family as well. We all got that picture of their family 
that was just sent to us, and we could not help but be moved seeing 
that photograph of them, knowing what a wonderful, wonderful family 
they are.
  I just have to say that I am very, very saddened, and my thought and 
prayers go to those family members. We have learned how fragile life 
truly is.
  Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from 
California (Mr. Thompson).
  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from 
California (Mr. Stark) for the time.
  Mr. Speaker, I am both saddened and honored to rise today in memory 
of our friend Bob Matsui. We can barely glimpse a man's greatness in a 
single floor statement, but I will try.
  American heroes have customarily run toward towering figures of many 
words, but today, our Chamber and our Nation honors a man whose 
contribution was not the quantity and volume of words but, rather, the 
quality and the effectiveness of both his spirit and his skill.
  Many will speak from the floor tonight of the landmark, legislative 
achievements of this extraordinary man. Many more will honor his 
lifetime of legislative victories and how they directly improved the 
lives of millions of Americans spanning several generations. Single 
mothers with infants. Civil rights. Our Nation's most vulnerable 
seniors. Bob provided more than a voice for those who could not speak 
for themselves. He provided victory. He provided results. He won 
monumental battles, not by being the loudest but by being the smartest 
and the most informed person in the debate.
  The Greeks have told us that death is hardest on those it leaves 
behind. This House has lost a rare statesman. Doris, Brian, Amy and 
Anna have lost a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather. I 
have lost a mentor and my best friend in this Congress, and our Nation 
has lost a tireless, compassionate and brilliant leader. To the Members 
I say, in the year that lies ahead of us, let us make sure that this 
Chamber is worthy of his grace and his legacy.

[[Page 86]]


  Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to yield 3 minutes to the 
gentleman from California (Mr. Doolittle), my very good friend from 
Rocklin.
  Mr. DOOLITTLE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman very much for the 
time.
  Mr. Speaker, while I, like our other colleagues, was really shocked 
to learn of this sad news, I think it was exactly a month ago today on 
the final day of the 108th Congress that Bob and I exchanged a warm 
greeting in the elevator, wished each other happy holidays and fully 
expected to see him back here with all the rest of us starting out 
today in the 109th Congress.
  I had the privilege of representing the adjoining region to Bob 
Matsui, who represented the City of Sacramento and certain surrounding 
areas. He and I got to know each other pretty well. We had some real 
contentious issues, one specific contentious issue that the Chamber is 
aware of dealing with water supply and flood control in our region, and 
we battled over that for a long time.
  Bob was a fearless advocate for his constituency, and it always 
impressed me as we went through this process of advocating our points 
of view and coming to the realization that we would be best served by 
trying to find some common ground and putting that into law. We got to 
know each other on a personal basis, and it was really a delightful 
experience. I think our constituents assumed we were bitter enemies, 
but that was not the case. The disagreements were never personal, and 
we actually became friends, and I always enjoyed seeing him.
  I knew he was a good family man. He cared a great deal about that, 
and from time to time we would sit back there in the back rows and 
visit with each other a little bit about that. He was very proud of his 
son Brian, first love Doris a great deal, and proud of his daughter-in-
law and of his new granddaughter, relatively new, 16 months old I 
believe.
  Like the gentleman from California (Mr. Stark), I was opening that 
Christmas card myself, well, just last week in Rocklin. That was one of 
the ones I saw, big beautiful card and filled with pictures of his 
family, and he was a very committed man, a very effective 
representative.
  Sacramento has a lot today because of work that he did, a lot of fine 
accomplishments from improving the airport to light rail taking off, 
getting started with him, and developing and extending the lines and so 
forth, the massive amount of flood control work on the levies and so 
forth that is going on, a lot. He has left quite a legacy.
  I shall miss him and I am truly sorry that this has happened. It is a 
shocking event, and my prayers are with Doris and Brian and Amy, his 
daughter-in-law, and Anna, the granddaughter. I thank my colleagues for 
this opportunity to offer my thoughts.
  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from 
California (Mr. Waxman).
  Mr. WAXMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is very difficult to come to terms with 
Bob's loss. It was a shock and so tragic. He was kind and decent beyond 
measure. He put a human face on the all too often theoretical debates 
on health care, Social Security, child welfare and tax policy, and he 
was always a voice of reason.
  Bob cared about the challenges real people faced, children in foster 
care, workers struggling for a fair shot and seniors whose Social 
Security checks make the difference between life in or out of poverty.
  In 1988, Bob helped the Nation come to terms with the terrible wrong 
our government committed against Japanese Americans during World War 
II. Bob and his family were forced into an internment camp when he was 
6 months old. His parents were both U.S.-born citizens, but they lost 
their home and family business during the three-and-a-half years their 
family was interned.
  Bob became the first Japanese American elected to the Sacramento City 
Council and one of the first Japanese Americans in Congress. He spent 
his career fighting injustice. Among his many efforts, he established a 
task force I was privileged to co-chair with him to give Members of 
Congress with diverse backgrounds a better understanding of the grave 
threats that Israel and the Israeli people face.
  On a personal level, I considered Bob one of my closest friends in 
this institution. We spent time together, often when I took advantage 
of the fact that our Bethesda homes were close by each other and 
hitched a ride with him.
  I know Bob's center of gravity was his family, his wife Doris, his 
son Brian, his daughter-in-law Amy and what he made clear was the most 
adorable granddaughter in the whole world, Anna. He was so proud of 
Brian and his accomplishments, his clerking for the Supreme Court of 
the United States and making more money in his first year in a law firm 
than even Members of the United States Congress.
  He cared deeply about his efforts to make a difference through public 
service and the principles and values of the Democratic Party, and this 
took him to the position of sacrifice as chairman of the Democratic 
Congressional Campaign Committee.
  Janet and I were so grateful for our friendships over the decade with 
Bob and Doris. We want to extend our deep condolences to the family, 
the entire family during this sorrowful time. This is an enormous loss 
for his family, for his friends and for this entire country.
  Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the 
very distinguished gentleman from California (Mr. Herger).
  Mr. HERGER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California for 
the time.
  Mr. Speaker, today we mourn a friend and able colleague. It is a 
tremendous loss to each of us and to our country.
  Bob Matsui was someone that virtually everyone in the Sacramento area 
knew and respected. Indeed, I was not elected to Congress until 1986, 
almost 10 years into Bob's service in the House, but my wife Pam and I 
already knew Bob and his wife Doris. One really could not be from the 
Sacramento area and not know and have tremendous respect and admiration 
for the Matsuis and for their work in the community.
  As a representative of a congressional district to the north of 
Sacramento, I worked frequently with Bob on issues of regional 
importance to northern California. He was a passionate and effective 
advocate for his constituents on a myriad of issues, particularly on 
flood control, one of the most critically important issues for those of 
us who live in flood-prone northern California.
  He will certainly be remembered by all of us as a leader on these and 
many other issues important to the region and as an able and dedicated 
voice for his constituents.
  I also had the pleasure of serving with Bob for many years on the 
House Committee on Ways and Means. A long-time supporter of free trade, 
Bob was willing and determined to reach across the aisle and work 
together on the challenging issue of trade policy.

                              {time}  1915

  He worked hard for policies that expanded trade, but that also 
ensured that it was fair and that the playing field was level for 
American companies and agricultural producers. Those efforts went a 
long way to helping expand economic opportunities for our northern 
California region as well as the Nation.
  In all his dealings, both public and private, Bob Matsui personified 
integrity. It was an honor to have called him a friend. On behalf of my 
wife, Pam, and me, I would like to extend our personal, heartfelt 
condolences to the Matsui family, his wife, Doris; his son and 
daughter-in-law, Brian and Amy; and his granddaughter, Anna, for their 
tremendous loss. They can be proud knowing that their husband, father, 
and grandfather worked incredibly hard to serve the people he 
represented, always with the noblest of intentions and always with the 
level of intellectual honesty, ability and skill that commanded 
enormous respect from everyone who knew and worked with him. He will be 
greatly missed by all.

[[Page 87]]


  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Texas 
(Mr. Doggett).
  Mr. DOGGETT. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this 
time.
  I rise to join my colleagues in paying tribute to an extraordinary 
human being, Bob Matsui. Like so many others across this country, the 
celebration of this new year was for me shaken by the incredibly sad 
news of Bob's demise. I awoke this Sunday expecting to be consumed with 
the challenges and work of the new year, only to be stunned to learn of 
the passing of an old friend.
  Libby and I had only a couple of days before shared the beauty of 
Bob's family that he and Doris send out each year at this time, 
reflecting on the last time we shared a meal with them, only a couple 
weeks before at a dinner table here in Washington, knowing of the pride 
that Bob felt in Doris' professional accomplishments and how often he 
mentioned Doris and Brian and his family in conversations on subjects 
here in Washington.
  There is a Greek proverb: ``The measure of man is what he does with 
power.'' By this measure, or really by any measure, Bob was indeed a 
great human being. Although he had significant power here in Washington 
as a senior Member of this House, he was viewed as a soft-spoken 
advocate for the things that he believed in and the people he 
represented. And yet on more than one occasion I have seen his temper 
flare at injustice.
  Bob was a great and principled policymaker. He gave a great deal of 
thought to the issues and the decisions before he spoke, and often took 
positions that were not popular but that represented his principles. He 
also was willing to grow and adjust those principles, certainly being 
committed to more trade, and yet over time he recognized that trade was 
more than just counting how many widgets crossed country lines, but how 
that trade affects people.
  He was committed to not only Social Security but to retirement 
security, and took a very forceful stance in this House about the 
concern that we do more to help those who have no retirement, not just 
to add to the retirement of those who already have much.
  It was my good fortune to serve with him on the Committee on Ways and 
Means, to come on that committee as a new member and find Bob as 
someone that I could turn to when I had a problem for personal advice 
and always get a thoughtful hearing and sound advice.
  While his passing is most premature, we can only seek to renew our 
strength inspired by his very strong example, to remember the causes 
that he championed and how he championed them, and to be strengthened 
in our efforts by his spirit and his fight for fairness, to stand up 
for what is right for the American people.
  It is fitting for us to honor Bob with our words, but certainly we 
must honor him in this Congress with our actions, to continue to 
champion the causes that he would champion and had so often, from this 
very microphone. Certainly that is true with regard to Social Security, 
as he stood up to those who would destabilize, privatize and piratize 
it. Without our ally, our work will be harder, our burden will be 
greater, and our responsibility will also be greater.
  As the Los Angeles Times editorialized about Bob recently, ``He 
epitomized an ideal of public service that has largely vanished in a 
partisan Congress.''
  Mr. Speaker, we salute Bob by our deeds as well as our words tonight.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Pearce). Without objection, the 
gentleman from California (Mr. Herger) will control the time.
  There was no objection.
  Mr. HERGER. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the 
gentleman from California (Mr. Thomas), the chairman of the Committee 
on Ways and Means, a committee that Bob Matsui served on for many 
years.
  Mr. THOMAS. Mr. Speaker, it is true that Bob and I were on the 
Committee on Ways and Means together; but, frankly, Bob and I go back a 
long way.
  This is especially difficult since just a very short time ago I was 
going through the Members' Christmas cards. If you have been around a 
long time one tends to see the march of time in the cards. You get a 
very formal card from a new Member. Maybe he is not married. Or if 
married, it is just a very bright, young couple. Over the years, the 
family grows, not just in stature but in numbers. We just received one 
from the Matsui's with a grandbaby prominently displayed.
  In 1978 in November in Sacramento, Members who had been elected to 
Congress in that election got together as Members-elect in Sacramento. 
I had known Bob by virtue of his being on the Sacramento City Council. 
I was an assemblyman at the time and of course spent some time in 
Sacramento. There were three other Democrats, colleagues in the 
assembly, Vic Fazio, Julian Dixon, and Tony Coelho who had been an aide 
to a Congressman and been elected in that same election. To show 
Members how much things do not change, one of the freshmen in that 
class was the gentleman from California (Mr. Lungren) who has joined us 
once again as a Member. Another member from the State Assembly who 
joined us that year, was the gentleman from California (Mr. Lewis).
  All of us got together as newly elected Members from California. We 
stayed together because when you are in the same class, even if you are 
of a different party, you have common ties, notwithstanding the 
differences of policy positions that you take or oftentimes the 
different committee directions that you take. It was my privilege and 
pleasure to serve not only at the same time as Bob, but for a 
significant number of years on the same committee.
  He was, as we now know even more so than we thought, in many ways a 
very private person. It was, I think, personality as well as culture. 
But if one could get inside there, all of the comments that Members 
have made in a very public way were also true of the private person. 
You often wonder, as is the case with some Members, how Bob would get 
elected if he had to go out and be gregarious among people. But when 
one meets Doris, you figure out how he did it easily: he just kept her 
in front of him. As some people have said with my wife, Sharon, they 
understand better once they have met the spouse how you get elected. 
But the most important thing was the couple and the union they formed.
  One of the things that some of the newer Members need to realize is 
that what occurs in committee and on the floor is business, and people 
go about their business in different ways. The reason we are going to 
hear a number of Members talk about Bob in the way that we will talk 
about Bob is because if you spend a little time getting to know the 
other businessmen, you cannot help but get to know them as a person. 
All of us are lamenting the passing of Congressman Bob Matsui, but 
those of us who knew the person of Bob Matsui are perhaps lamenting 
even more.
  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield for the purpose of making a unanimous 
consent request to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Harman).
  Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to a gentleman and a 
gentle man, Bob Matsui.
  I will sorely miss my good friend and colleague Bob Matsui. 
California and America have lost a champion for justice, Social 
Security, fair trade and opportunity for all.
  Bob's courage was remarkable. Imprisoned in an internment camp as a 
young child, he worked to give freedom and dignity to others.
  Serving more than 25 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, most 
recently as a Senior Member of the powerful Ways and Means Committee, 
and Ranking Member of its Social Security Subcommittee, as well as 
Chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Bob was an 
unfailing gentleman and a loyal friend.
  I met him early in his House career. Long before I thought of running 
for Congress I consulted him, and he offered his support.
  Shortly thereafter, my key advisor and law firm colleague Vic Raiser 
died in a plane crash. Bob knew our relationship and called me. He 
said, ``I cannot take Vic's place, but I'll sure try.'' He made my race 
his top priority and personally contacted his donor base on

[[Page 88]]

my behalf. His efforts were critical to my victory and I referred to 
him thereafter as my ``mother.''
  At this time of sadness, my thoughts and prayers are with Bob's 
extraordinary wife, Doris, son Brian and beautiful granddaughter, Anna. 
Bob leaves a huge void in this nation and a big hole in my heart.
  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from New 
York (Mr. Rangel).
  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I thank all Members for participating in 
this tribute to someone whom we all believe was our best friend. This 
is so very unusual in a Congress that does not allow us to meet often 
or travel very much together that each one of us treasures so much 
those special personal relationships that we have.
  At a time when hundreds of thousands of lives are being lost in Asia 
and in the Middle East, God has a way of reducing all of this and 
making it a lot more personal when it appears in the middle of the 
night. He just snatches away someone that you may have just taken for 
granted. Certainly the loss of Bob had everyone startled. How could a 
person with such fierce commitment to legislation and to the Congress 
who was so involved, and appeared to be looking so hard toward the next 
challenge, how could God have just snatched him away without any 
warning? But I have found over the years that it eases the pain, it 
does not remove it, but it eases the pain if during times like this you 
can think of how fortunate you were that in your lifetime you came 
across a person like Bob Matsui.
  It also helps if you can thank God that you do not have to say I wish 
I had spent more time with him or I wish I had gotten to know him 
better or I wish I had told him how fond I was of him, or how much I 
appreciated his dedication to the committee, to the Congress, to the 
causes that he so truly believed in. And then it makes you feel a 
little better that you had a chance to say Bob Matsui, we love you.
  It is hard for me to think of anyone that felt so strongly about his 
beliefs, and at the same time we hear over and over tonight that he was 
indeed a gentle man, how we can hear Members from both sides of the 
aisle saying we are human beings, we are dedicated, we do have 
different beliefs, but here was a guy who was able to take all of this 
and still manage to have friends on both sides of the aisle.

                              {time}  1930

  Yes, the chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means is so correct, 
because we always felt that we had two Members as being friends, 
because Doris was a partner, she was a friend, she was a supporter and, 
of course, Brian and Amy, they all had an opportunity to share their 
love and dedication to their father, to her husband, before he left. He 
did not just walk away from our lives but in his classy way he said 
good-bye to the family and left us here in the Congress and especially 
us in the Democratic Caucus with such a sense of pride and feeling how 
proud we were to be able to have a person of his caliber not only 
politically being our leader but on the Committee on Ways and Means 
where so often we hear that he was an expert in Social Security 
legislation, but those of us who were privileged to serve on the 
committee knew that he was an expert in anything that came before the 
committee. He was an expert in trade, he was an expert in pensions, he 
was an expert in welfare issues. And not because he was just a good 
lawyer and a good lawmaker but because he was compassionate and 
understood where he came from and his commitment was trying to improve 
the quality of life of Americans and human beings all over. He never 
forgot the struggles that he and his family had gone through and he 
always led us to believe that we could achieve even things beyond our 
expectations in working with him.
  And so with all of this loss and in searching for something to thank 
God for doing, I can say I thank Him for sharing Bob with us and I 
thank Him for giving me the opportunity of having told Bob Matsui how 
much I loved him.
  Mr. HERGER. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I am happy at this point to yield 3 minutes 
on behalf of the Congressional Asian and Pacific Islanders Caucus to 
the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Wu).
  Mr. WU. Mr. Speaker, today we stand together here in the people's 
House to honor and mourn the loss of one of its true servants, Bob 
Matsui. I am filled with sadness as we remember an outstanding Member 
of Congress, an inspiration to a generation of Asian Americans, a 
leader and a good friend. It is not only a loss for those of us who had 
the privilege to serve with him, not just a loss for Asian Americans 
but a loss for this Congress and all Americans. His wisdom and counsel 
will certainly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family 
during this time, with Doris, with Brian and Amy.
  Bob Matsui believed in the value of public service. As a Congressman 
for 26 years and as a city councilman and vice mayor of his beloved 
Sacramento before that, he understood that government had a positive 
role to play in people's lives. Inspired by the calling of President 
Kennedy's speech challenging Americans to ask what they could do for 
their country, Bob Matsui dedicated his life to that challenge.
  Bob Matsui was a mentor, a statesman and a role model. As a founding 
member of the Asian Pacific American Caucus, he was able to provide his 
insight and experience about the importance of public service and how 
to get the job done to many of us junior Members. Several members of 
that caucus join me today in honoring Bob Matsui's life and selfless 
service.
  As a senior member of the Committee on Ways and Means, Bob Matsui was 
intricately involved in that committee's complex portfolio and 
important public policy issues, including tax policy, international law 
and trade, Social Security, health care and welfare reform. Most 
notably in recent years, Bob fought to preserve Social Security because 
he believed that the elderly and the disabled are entitled to the 
stability of a guaranteed income that allows them to live in dignity. 
Many of us will miss his voice in the coming debates on the future of 
Social Security.
  Those of us who had the privilege to know Bob Matsui and to serve 
with him will be forever in his debt. His intellect, his passion for 
justice, his dedication to the value of public service will continue to 
be guideposts for us all. Bob, wherever you are, it is a far, far 
better place now that you are there. Thank you for all the sound advice 
that I received from you over the years. My only regret is that I did 
not take a little bit more of it. Today we mourn the loss of a great 
man and a friend. He will be missed.
  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to yield 3 minutes to the 
gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee).
  Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to pay tribute to a great 
leader, to an extraordinary human being, our beloved Bob Matsui. I rise 
with a heavy heart tonight as we remember Bob. I remember him as a 
fighter for justice, for our senior citizens, and for all those who 
have yet to realize the American dream. Bob's quiet strength always 
amazed me. He was brilliant, yet he always listened and valued ideas 
and input from others.
  When I first ran for Congress, I remember that Bob came to my 
district and he helped me with my campaign with a variety of 
constituencies. Of course, my colleagues know I have a very vibrant 
port in my district and trade is such a critical issue. Bob taught me a 
lot about trade and helped me tremendously as we debated our trade 
policy in this body. Like myself, my constituents were inspired by 
Bob's life as they got to know him, knowing that he spent his first 
formative years in an internment camp. But rather than turn bitter, Bob 
worked to ensure that those interned during those dark moments of 
American history were granted reparations for such a shameless act. Bob 
Matsui used his personal experiences not in a selfish way but to heal 
the wounds of so many Japanese Americans and our entire country. For 
that, we owe him a debt of gratitude.
  Several years ago, Bob asked me to come to Sacramento to keynote the

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NAACP, I think it was the Sacramento NAACP's annual Martin Luther King 
dinner. The respect and the love that Bob's multiracial constituency 
had for him and for Doris was something to behold. He was the epitome 
of a public servant and his constituents knew it, year after year after 
year.
  As we move into this very critical debate to save Social Security, 
let us remember Bob's commitment to save Social Security and to ensure 
that our seniors in their golden years live the life that they deserve. 
We will have to fight, of course, twice as hard now that we do not have 
Bob with us, but Bob would want us to do just that. May the insights 
and the inspiration that Bob Matsui brought to this and so many of our 
debates guide us to do the right thing and to uphold his extraordinary 
legacy. To Bob's loving family, to Doris, to Brian, Amy and Anna, my 
thoughts and my prayers are with you. Thank you for sharing this giant 
of a human being with all of us. Our country and the world is a better 
place. May his soul rest in peace.
  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Menendez), the chairman of the 
Democratic Caucus.
  Mr. MENENDEZ. I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time.
  Mr. Speaker, as the chairman of the Democratic Caucus, I rise to pay 
tribute to a great American, a dear colleague, a good friend, one of 
our own, the late Congressman Bob Matsui.
  I would like to offer my condolences to Doris, to Brian, to Amy, to 
Anna, and to his staff, both in California and in Washington, for the 
wonderful job they have done for him and the people of his State over 
the past 26 years. It is unique when a colleague of ours dies because 
we are called to look back at their accomplishments over the years and 
we begin to realize what a great human being they really were. We see 
our colleagues on the floor every day and we obviously know them, we 
like them, we have friendships but unfortunately not until they leave 
us do we have an opportunity to think back on their careers. Looking at 
Bob's career, it is easy to see that his passing is a great loss for 
America, a great loss to his constituents, a great loss to the United 
States Congress. He was and will be remembered for his work in the 
House of Representatives, for being a leading opponent of Social 
Security privatization, a supporter of free and then fair international 
trade, and a fair-minded tax writer who was a strong proponent of 
fiscal responsibility. These contributions as a public servant over the 
past decades helped move our Nation towards a better and brighter 
future and that will be his lasting legacy. Bob Matsui was held in the 
highest regard by all who knew him for his unquestionable honor, his 
keen intelligence and his heartfelt kindness.
  All of us in this institution are referred to as the gentlelady or 
gentleman from the day we are sworn in as a Member of this body. 
However, Bob Matsui truly deserved that title since he was truly the 
gentleman from California.
  On a different level, Bob was a loving husband, father and 
grandfather. To ascribe so many positive qualities to one individual 
might be seen as the usual gilding of the lily. In case of Bob Matsui, 
it was simply the truth. My life, this House, and our country are 
better off thanks to his life here on Earth with us. God bless you, 
Bob.
  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to yield 4 minutes to the 
gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Levin), who does not realize that among 
the other things that he has to thank Bob for is the fact that he will 
learn now he will have to sit next to me on the committee and he has 
been spared that all these years.
  Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to that but I must say I loved 
sitting next to Bob Matsui.
  When I came here Monday morning, having heard the news a few hours 
before, here is what I said to myself: This place is truly a different 
place without Bob Matsui. There is for us a large hole in our ranks and 
in our hearts. He added so much to this institution that he loved. He 
added his exceptional vitality to the notion we often say, this is the 
people's House. Bob underlined, this was the House of all the people. 
He identified with the underdog, with those trying to climb up the 
ladder of life more than those who were already at the top. Opportunity 
meant everything to Bob. Tax policy, his interest in EITC, to help 
those working lift themselves up, his interest in child care and health 
care for those who were leaving welfare for work. He fought also, we 
know, for the seniors of this Nation. And how hard he was fighting as 
illness overtook them, trying to make sure that there was opportunity 
for elder citizens and not deprivation.
  In trade policy, as has been mentioned, my brother the gentleman from 
New York (Mr. Rangel) is here, I think I would describe it this way 
about Bob. He saw opportunities in expansion of trade, but more and 
more he came to believe that as globalization expanded it was critical 
that expanded trade leveled up and not leveled down. Where all of his 
ardor came from, I am not sure. Some no doubt from his family's life 
experience and some of my colleagues knew more about that than I did. 
From him, he did not talk very much about it. I read in some of the 
reports that Bob was described as low-key and quiet and I see some of 
my colleagues shaking their heads. Those press reports did not quite 
capture Bob Matsui.

                              {time}  1945

  He was gentle, that is true. And he was very dignified and in a way 
quiet. But he was a gentle person, focused, dedicated, tenacious, and 
tough. He did not claim to know all of the answers; but when witnesses 
came before the committee, he was insistent that they give straight 
answers to his questions. And the mightier they were, the witness, the 
mightier was Bob Matsui's determination. I will not mention the members 
of administrations who learned that firsthand.
  There has been reference to this Christmas card and I wish everybody 
who may be viewing this could see this picture, how it moved us. And 
let me close by reading just the last paragraph of this card: ``As we 
look at this special season through Anna's eyes,'' the granddaughter, 
``we feel a renewal of our family's traditions. Let us cherish these 
special moments and be thankful for what is most important in our 
lives, our family, our friends, and the blessings of everyday life. 
Bob, Doris, Brian, Amy, and Anna Matsui.''
  Our condolences to the family, to Doris, Brian, Amy, and Anna. Bob 
Matsui was always looking to the future. Now it is up to us to look to 
the future on behalf of Bob Matsui. Bob, we love you.
  Mr. HERGER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
  It has really been a great honor and privilege for me to be able to 
at least control part of the time on our side on someone who is one of 
the most respected and most honorable and outstanding individuals that 
I have known in my lifetime, my friend Bob Matsui.
  Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield the 
balance of my time to the gentleman from California (Mr. Stark).
  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California for 
yielding me this time, and I yield 2\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from 
California (Mr. Farr).
  Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this 
time.
  I remember Bob Matsui from younger days. We were all Sacramentons. I 
was newly married. Shary and I went to Sacramento to work in California 
State politics. And there in Sacramento was this new enthusiastic 
political community rising because California had just amended its 
constitution to set the legislature to hire full-time staff, and so it 
was a can-do city.
  And in the midst of this was this young graduate from the University 
of California who was a big champion of Berkeley and the Cal Bears, and 
he chose to run for city council. And a wonderful staff member named 
Steve Thompson introduced Bob to everybody, and Steve was a staff 
member and active in Democratic clubs and political social life. My 
wife, Shary, was working for John Moss, who was the

[[Page 90]]

predecessor to Bob Matsui. He was the Congressman at the time; and when 
John Moss retired, the city Democrats were split over who to support 
for that seat: the mayor, Phil Isenberg, a great popular person in 
Sacramento; or the young Bob Matsui. And it was a raucous grass roots 
primary battle. Bob won, and as they say, the rest is history.
  It is a shock that Bob is gone. He was too young, too talented, too 
much going for him as a new grandfather to have been taken from us. As 
Chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, he raised a 
record amount of money for the congressional Democrats. We counted on 
him to lead us into battle against the President's proposals to 
privatize Social Security.
  When one is speaking about Bob, one has to talk about Doris, who 
conquered Washington politics in her own right and ended up in the 
Clinton White House. She and Bob were a classic political couple, 
really well known in D.C. as well as Sacramento. My heart goes out to 
Doris and the family, to Brian, Amy, and little Anna.
  Bob's congressional district is one of the most significant in the 
United States because he represents the best staffed, most productive, 
best known political celebrities in the Nation's biggest State capital, 
Sacramento. He was the Congressman for the Federal tax issues relating 
to California's tax needs. I remember that Bob Matsui had to carry the 
tax exemption for State legislators' per diem. Can my colleagues 
imagine the likes of Jess Unruh, Willie Brown, Jerry Brown, and the 
entire 120 members of the senate and assembly counting on his ability 
to convince Chairman Rostenkowski that the California State legislators 
should have something that no Member of Congress had, a tax exempt per 
diem 7 days a week for the entire legislative session? Bob had every 
legislator in California breathing down his throat. Their power in 
Sacramento meant absolutely nothing here in Washington. They needed Bob 
to do it for them. No one thought he could pull it off, not against 
Rosty. But he did.
  California Democrats had a lot of political sorrow this last year. 
They lost the governorship in a recall election, lost many seasoned 
politicians like John Burton and Willie Brown and John Vasconcellos and 
Bryon Sher, just to name a few notables, to term limits. They lost in 
the unexpected death of former State senator Henry Mello and even lost 
their long beloved staffer, Steve Thompson. And now Congressman Bob 
Matsui is lost to us all, the biggest loss of all.
  Bob was a Member's Member. His death has sent the State capital into 
a frenzy trying to decide who will run in the special election to 
replace him. Congress is abuzz with who will take his seat on the 
Committee on Ways and Means. The political world is wondering who will 
succeed him as Chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign 
Committee.
  But the fact of the matter is that no one can take his place. The son 
of Japanese immigrants, whom our own government interred, he rose to be 
one of our Nation's most respected Congressman. No one will take his 
place. They can only try to emulate what his service means to the 
American spirit of public service in a democracy. When the Nation is 
experiencing what most people will certainly remember as a horrible 
year in the annals of modern history, a year that encompasses war, 
pestilence, and disease, thank God we had the goodwill of Bob Matsui, a 
real American role model.
  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, in order to accommodate a number of speakers 
on both sides of the aisle, I ask unanimous consent to extend my time 
for 1 hour and that the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Zoe Lofgren) 
control my time.
  Pending that, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from California 
(Ms. Eshoo).
  The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Neugebauer). Is there objection to the 
request of the gentleman from California?
  There was no objection.
  Ms. ESHOO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the distinguished dean of the 
California Democratic delegation for yielding me this time.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight with a broken heart. And the way I would 
like to formulate my remarks tonight is having a conversation with Bob, 
because it is the best way I know how. I would say to him almost every 
time we were on the floor together, Bob, I want to tell you something. 
So, Bob, tonight I want to tell you some more things.
  We are broken hearted that you are gone and we cannot believe it. We 
have a hole in our hearts, and we have a hole in our caucus; and 
everywhere we have turned, we have seen you on the floor today. Our joy 
in being sworn in as new Members of Congress has been diminished 
because you are not standing here physically next to us. Thank you for 
being the kind of friend that you were. Just the best. Loyal, fun, 
serious, aggressive on all the right things. Thank you for never being 
embittered by the experience that your family, American citizens, 
third-generation Americans, were subjected to by their own government. 
And you grew and you rose, and you were an example to our country of 
what one can become because of the opportunity of America.
  You understood, Bob, thank you, that America is the best idea that 
was ever born. But you went beyond that because you reached deep inside 
of yourself and brought out the best in everyone, in the ideas that you 
brought here, in the ideas that you fought for.
  Remember how grateful we are to you that you carried us in the last 2 
years, that you believed and we were so proud that you were a Democrat, 
and you were the kind of Democrat that understood that if it was only 
good for the Democratic Party that that was not good enough, that we 
needed to be great for our country; and you believed that.
  Thank you for believing in Social Security. Thank you for the 
countless times that you said we are going to win that battle. Thank 
you for what you said to me the last time we were together: you know, 
Anna, that corporations by the law of the Congress cannot dip into 
their pension funds and borrow from them. Now why would it stand to 
reason that the American government, the Congress, the administration 
continues to dip into Social Security? That is not the right way to go.
  So all of your dignity, Bob, that magnificent face of yours that took 
on age with wisdom, thank you for laughing when I said to you how proud 
I am, Bob, that your granddaughter bears the name Anna. He really 
laughed when I said that, said, I did not realize that you loved me so 
much.
  Bob, we all loved you. You showed us what it is to be a Member of the 
Congress of the United States. In the House of the people of all of the 
people, you are always going to be standing next to us. What you did 
here is not lost.
  Thank you, Doris, for being the partner that you are and always will 
be. Thank you, Brian, for being the son that you have been. Thank you, 
Amy, and thank you, Anna. We are going to treasure you always. But the 
most important thing is, Bob, we will never ever lose what you did 
here. We are going to carry it every day. It is the gold and the myrrh 
of all of us. Thank you, Bob. We love you.
  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the 
gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Spratt).
  Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I rise with heavy heart to pay tribute to a 
dear friend, an exemplary Member of this institution, and a great 
American. Bob Matsui did more than represent the Fifth District of 
California. He represented the best in American politics. Indeed, if 
one asked me to describe an ideal Congressman, Bob Matsui would be 
Exhibit A. In an institution that is sometimes short on comity and 
civility, Bob was mellow and civil by nature. He had a first-class 
temperament as well as a first-class intelligence.

                              {time}  2000

  But make no mistake about it: he was a fighter for what he believed 
in. He was a politician of principle and passion and prodigious energy 
as proved by the way he stumped the country for Democratic candidates,

[[Page 91]]

even as he suffered from the blood condition that finally claimed his 
life. Whether the issue was taxes or trade or Social Security, the 
earned income credit, he always had an arsenal of facts at his 
disposal. On whatever the issue, your issue, you were always better off 
if you ran your arguments by Bob and sought his support here in the 
well of this House. He became a leader in this House and an influence, 
not so much because of seniority or position, but because everyone 
liked him, respected him, and knew his intelligence.
  When Bob spoke, he knew his stuff. He spoke with authority. He spoke 
substance and sense. I was last with him on December 15 for the better 
part of the day. We had a teleconference with 36 reporters calling in. 
It lasted for more than an hour. We literally had to cut it off. 
Afterwards when I spoke with Bob, he was on the ceiling, just delighted 
with the response we had gotten, and ready to suit up, ready to do 
battle over Social Security. It was this sort of zest that made Bob 
Matsui a delight and a joy to work with.
  On our side we have a deep bench and we will fill his committee 
position with a competent successor, but no one can surpass Bob's 
mastery of the subjects which were his domain on either side of the 
aisle. The Congress has lost a great leader and the country a true 
patriot, a citizen, a third generation American who was interned as a 
child with his family who suffered an awful, terrible, unforgivable 
injustice. But he loved his country nevertheless and committed his life 
to making it better.
  We do not ask today for whom the bells toll. They toll for all of us, 
but especially for those of us who served with Bob Matsui, loved him as 
a friend, and wonder if we will ever see his like again. To Doris and 
to Brian and Amy and little Anna, our hearts go out. But just as Bob 
lives on in all of you, he lives on in all of us who worked with him 
for years and years. His legacy is one that will last in this 
institution. Indeed, this great old institution of the Republic is a 
better place because he served here sacrificially for 26 years.
  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the 
gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Lewis).
  Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise and speak in 
honor of a wonderful colleague and a beloved friend, Bob Matsui. No 
one, but no one, was more able and more respected in this body than Bob 
Matsui. I came here a little over 18 years ago, and I met this man who 
was so thoughtful, kind, and gentle. Sometimes in this body we call 
each other ``the honorable, the gentleman, the gentlewoman.'' Bob 
Matsui was honorable, and he was a gentleman. He was honorable in the 
truest sense of that word.
  I remember when I first came here in the fall of 1986. During 
freshman orientation, we had a dinner at Statuary Hall. My 10-year-old 
son, John Miles, came with me; and Bob Matsui took the time to engage 
my son in conversation. My young son, only 10 years old, really 
appreciated that. Bob Matsui took the time to talk to him and almost 
treated him like another member of the freshman class. He grew to 
admire and like Bob Matsui. When I informed him that Bob Matsui had 
passed, he said, ``Daddy, I really liked him. I am sorry. I am so 
sorry.''
  We lost a colleague, and some of us have lost a friend. The American 
people have lost a champion and a warrior who fought to protect Social 
Security and looked out for the young and all of those who have been 
left out and left behind in America.
  There are people in this business that we meet from time to time who 
love the world, but they do not necessarily like people. Bob Matsui not 
only liked people, but he loved. He loved all of us, and we loved him.
  A few short years ago, I had the opportunity to spend a weekend in 
Bob's district. He took me to a university where we had a community 
meeting with students and faculty. We listened, we spoke, and we 
listened. As a matter of fact, on the campus when we arrived, there 
were chickens running all around. I said, Bob, I feel really at home 
with all of these chickens. So when I got up to speak, I said to the 
president of the university, I said, Mr. President, I know there is 
some controversy about chickens on the campus, but do not move the 
chickens; let the chickens stay here. And Bob laughed and laughed, and 
we got an agreement out of the president that the chickens would remain 
on the campus.
  We visited schools, we visited a synagogue, a church, and a service 
in memory of Dr. King. During that trip, I witnessed the love that Bob 
Matsui had for his people and the love that they demonstrated for him.
  I tell my colleagues, it seems so unreal, so unbelievable; it is 
almost impossible to comprehend the loss of a friend, the loss of a 
brother, a colleague, a husband, a father, a grandfather. What more can 
be said about this man? His life was not in vain. He gave of himself. 
He was just a warm, decent, good human being who treated each and every 
one of us with respect.
  When I was walking across the grounds of the Capitol today a few 
hours ago, a police officer came up to me and said, ``Congressman, when 
you speak to Mrs. Matsui, please tell her on behalf of all of the 
Capitol Police officers that her husband was a good man and he treated 
us well.''
  As a Nation and as a people, this is a great loss. Bob Matsui 
represents something very special. I, for one, I do not believe that we 
will ever be so lucky or so blessed to witness his likeness again. May 
God bless his soul.
  At this very difficult time, our prayers and our thoughts are with 
his beloved wife, Doris; his son, Brian; his daughter-in-law, Amy; his 
granddaughter, Anna; his staff; and the people of the Fifth 
Congressional District of California. May they find comfort and peace 
in the love and memory of this great and beloved man.
  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to our 
fellow Californian and Bob's colleague on the Committee on Ways and 
Means (Mr. Becerra).
  Mr. BECERRA. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague and friend for 
yielding me this time.
  To Doris Matsui, Brian, Amy and Anna, we grieve with you; but more, 
we celebrate the life of a wonderful human being, as I know you will 
have an opportunity to do over the coming months and years as we all 
remember Bob Matsui.
  I would like to talk to you, Anna, because right now it is perhaps 
difficult for you to grasp all that is being said about your 
grandfather, given that you are just a little over a year old. But in 
time, with the wonders of technology and the beauty of a democracy in 
the people's House where every word that we speak in the well of this 
body is recorded for time immortal, perhaps you will have an 
opportunity to take a glimpse at what so many people thought of your 
grandfather.
  I will tell you he was a wonderful human being, a superb legislator 
and public servant and, perhaps most of all, a great American. I will 
tell you also that he graduated from a great high school 17 years 
before I did, at C.K. McClatchy High School in Sacramento, California.
  He cared a great deal about the people he represented. He was a 
fighter and a champion. He knew when to fight, he knew how to fight, 
and he knew for whom he was fighting all the time.
  If you ever had an opportunity to converse with Bob Matsui, you knew 
that his deepest conversations were spoken with his eyes. He had these 
eyes that somehow could convey what oftentimes words cannot, and you 
knew that when he spoke with his eyes he was speaking to you from 
conviction, with determination, focus, and experience. And if it were 
not his words, for sure his eyes would convince you of a direction to 
take, of what he was trying to say, of where to go, of how to do it 
right. A handshake from Bob Matsui was as sure a bet as the sun rising 
in the morning.
  If you knew Bob Matsui, you knew that he cared deeply about family, 
about this country, and about what would happen to the next generation. 
We are going to miss him in this fight to create a better America, to 
preserve Social Security for our seniors and for the next generations 
to come. We are

[[Page 92]]

going to miss him when we talk about our relations with all of our 
friends around the world in trade. But we will carry on that fight, 
because he is a champion to us now as he was before he passed on.
  Anna, I say to you as you grow and have an opportunity to speak to 
your grandmother and your parents more about your grandfather, and as 
you read more about his many accomplishments, I hope that you will look 
back at some of the words that were spoken by people who respected him 
so dearly and considered him friend, mentor, confidant, that this is a 
man who left so much for you to glean, to learn from, and this is a man 
from whom you will have an opportunity to say we can admire an American 
and certainly America can say that we can appreciate this American.
  So, Doris, with all due respect to you and to Brian and to Amy, I 
think it is most appropriate for me to address myself to Anna because I 
believe the greatest gift that Bob Matsui left us was the fact that he 
thought about the future; and, Anna, I suspect that he was thinking 
about you as much as anyone else. So with you Anna, Godspeed as you 
learn from a great man, Bob Matsui.
  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from Kansas (Mr. Moore).
  Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I am here tonight to pay tribute 
and honor to our good friend and fallen comrade, Bob Matsui. My wife, 
Stephanie, and I just came from visiting with Doris at their home, and 
we put our arms around Doris and told her how much we loved her and 
loved Bob Matsui.
  I cannot think of a more fitting tribute to pay to Bob Matsui than to 
say this: I have never heard Bob Matsui say anything unkind about any 
other human being, and I have never heard any person in this Chamber 
say anything unkind about Bob Matsui. And that is somewhat unique, I 
suppose, because there are some unkind things said about other people 
in this Chamber, but never about Bob or from Bob.
  I feel that we are going to miss Bob. I know we will miss Bob, and we 
will miss his intellect, his passion, his compassion, and the history 
that he brought to this body. I know Congress will miss Bob. I know 
that I am a better person for having known Bob. And when God looks down 
on some cold, wintry night on this beautiful Earth and there are 1 
million stars shining in the sky, I know one of those stars will shine 
brighter, and that will be Bob. We will miss you, Bob, and we love you.
  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the 
gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Price).
  Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, this is a House of diverse 
and talented Members, but among these Members, Bob Matsui stood out in 
many, many ways. He stood out as an effective legislator; a senior 
member of the Committee on Ways and Means, the third ranking Democrat. 
Bob was a leader on trade issues. He was a prominent spokesman among 
Democrats for those of us who favor an expansive trade policy for our 
country, with safeguards, to level the playing field in terms of 
environmental and labor standards. He was the foremost Democratic 
expert on Social Security, determined to fortify that program for 
future generations.
  Bob Matsui stood out as a committed leader of the Democratic Caucus. 
He did an extraordinary job in what is our party's toughest assignment, 
that is, the chairmanship of the Democratic Congressional Campaign 
Committee, recruiting our candidates, raising untold amounts of money, 
keeping us motivated and focused.

                              {time}  2015

  He had the toughest assignment in our caucus, and he did it with 
grace and with great effectiveness.
  Bob Matsui stood out for his extraordinary and distinctive personal 
story. As a child he was one of 120,000 Japanese Americans interned in 
camps during World War II. I learned about Bob's story early in my 
service in Congress as he helped many of us understand the need for the 
Japanese American Redress Act, belatedly passed by this Chamber in 
1988.
  Bob Matsui stood out as a warm friend and supportive colleague. He 
was a man who took time to get to know his colleagues. He was a 
wonderful listener, a great encourager, always willing to share credit 
and to seek a common basis for action.
  Bob was one of our most reasonable Members. Surely he was one of our 
most reasonable colleagues. He was persuasive precisely because we knew 
he was a man of his word, and we knew he was a man of utter integrity.
  Like many here, I considered Bob a close friend, generous with his 
counsel, with ready encouragement and will miss him greatly.
  My wife and I have also treasured our friendship with Bob and Doris 
Matsui as a couple. Doris has made major contributions of her own to 
our country, particularly as a Deputy Assistant to the President and 
Deputy Director of Public Liaison in the White House for the Clinton 
administration, and she has been a strong and loyal partner to Bob in 
his endeavors.
  We extend our heartfelt sympathy to Doris and her family, hoping that 
she may draw comfort and strength from the outpouring of affection and 
respect from Bob's and her many friends and admirers this evening and 
in the days to come.
  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson-Lee).
  Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I say to Doris, she married a 
nice man.
  The Congressman that we mourn tonight can be described in many, many 
ways. It is not often that we use the word ``nice'' and people 
understand the fullness of what it means. Bob Matsui was a nice person 
and a nice man. He was a committed man and a dedicated public servant.
  I enjoyed talking to him because we had a commonality. He started on 
the Sacramento City Council, and he made me feel that, coming from the 
city council in my town.
  He loved Sacramento. He rose to be the vice mayor of that town, but 
it made him sensitive to the local needs of people. So, even though I 
would view him to be the crafter, the definer of the modern day Social 
Security in these days, I know that he also understood when a pothole 
got your last tire, that made him a man who cared about the little 
things but understood the big things.
  I note his love and affection for the Committee on Ways and Means. 
Yes, if one can love a committee, Bob loved his committee. He loved his 
fellow committee persons. He loved his ranking member, who he called 
chairman. They had a special bond and a special unity, cared about each 
other, and of course Bob was not a narrow thinker. One may have come 
from Texas, may have come from New York, Missouri or somewhere else, 
but he embraced you.
  I will never forget his steady hand in this last very challenging 
election cycle. If you did not toe the line, Bob had a way of giving 
you a call and making sure that what you needed to do to get good folk 
elected were elected. He stayed steadfast in the last days of the 
Louisiana election, but most of all his special story is worth noting, 
and to his wife Doris, his son Brian, daughter-in-law Amy and 
granddaughter Anna, he will go down as an icon of American history.
  I cannot imagine an internment. I have a history that relates to 
that, but I never was a slave, but yes, this humble Congressperson 
started his early life interned in the United States of America. His 
story is unfortunately part of America's story, but even with that 
experience this giant of a man rose to be a leader in this Congress and 
to be able to turn us away from those ways that were wrong.
  Thank you, Bob, Congressman Matsui, for living amongst us. Thank you 
for being a man of honor. Thank you, Doris, Brian, Amy and Anna, for 
giving him to us. God bless you and may your soul rest in peace.
  I rise today to honor a fallen colleague, one who embodied everything 
a true public official is supposed to be. But Robert T. Matsui was more 
than a Member of Congress, he was a

[[Page 93]]

husband, a father and a grandfather, but more than that he was a man of 
great character. His presence in this hallowed chamber for the last 26 
years will not soon be forgotten, but his presence in our hearts will 
live on even longer.
  Robert Matsui was a dedicated public servant who had a long and 
illustrious career in California and here in Washington. He rose to 
great national prominence, but Robert Matsui always had his heart and 
his values in his district in Sacramento. His dedication to local 
issues was shown by his years of service in the Sacramento City Council 
where he rose to the position of Vice Mayor of Sacramento. Throughout 
his tenure in Congress, Robert Matsui never forgot the constituents who 
voted fourteen times to send him back to Washington. He championed the 
fight for adequate flood control in the region and was integral in 
Sacramento's transformation. He had big ideas for our Nation, but he 
never forgot the value of individuals and the importance of taking care 
of your district. All those who had the honor of knowing him could see 
he was a genuine person with real values.
  The thing I will always remember Robert Matsui for was that his voice 
was gentle, but you knew that his spirit was strong In Congress he was 
a tireless advocate and national spokesman for the preservation of 
Social Security. When he first campaigned in 1978 for the congressional 
seat serving Sacramento, California, he persuaded voters to elect him 
by promising that he would bring to the office ``a new form of 
statesmanship,'' anyone who knew him know that he brought statesmanship 
to a new level. His excellence and grace was known on both sides of the 
aisle. His presence will sorely be missed,but his heart and 
determination will stay with us all.
  At this time of grief it is hard to understand why a good man passed 
away in the prime of his life. But I hope his wife Doris, son Brian, 
daughter-in-law Amy, and granddaughter Anna will take solace in the 
fact that Robert Matsui lived a full life of honor. There may be those 
who will live longer, but there will be few who lay claim to that same 
statement. We are all at a loss for a great leader in this body, but we 
suffer a greater loss of a good human being.
  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Lowey).
  Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great sorrow to join my 
colleagues in remembering and honoring our colleague, our dear friend, 
Bob Matsui.
  Bob Matsui was a fine man. He loved his family, he loved his country 
and he loved this House, the institution he served for 26 years, and in 
return, we loved him.
  He loved his family. He loved his country. We loved his gentle manner 
and incisive mind. We loved his tenacity and fair-mindedness, his 
policy expertise and political skill. He was a true leader of this 
caucus and the California delegation, a real hero to Japanese Americans 
and a true fighter for economic opportunity, fiscal accountability and 
social justice. Like so many, I cannot imagine debating the future of 
Social Security and many other issues without Bob.
  While the Nation will suffer from his loss, the family's loss is 
deeper and greater than we could possibly imagine. My heart goes out to 
Doris, Brian, Amy and little Anna. He was so proud of Anna and was so 
happy to share pictures of her with all of us, and Doris, you were 
truly his partner, and he spoke so often of Brian and Amy and their joy 
at Anna's birth. I know he loved them and he was so proud of them.
  I also want to extend my condolences to his wonderful, hardworking 
staff, both here on the Hill and at the DCCC, his close circle of 
former staff, as well as to the people of the Fifth District of 
California. Bob was a kind, principled man, a valued colleague and a 
very dear friend. I will miss him greatly.
  We love you, Bob. You will always remain in our hearts and your 
outstanding work will always be an example to this House of 
Representatives.
  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the 
gentleman from California (Mr. George Miller), our colleague.
  Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, in my 30 years in the 
Congress you have the honor and the privilege of meeting so many people 
from so many different walks of life, not just my colleagues that I 
have served with in the House of Representatives but obviously the 
people that I represent and the people who come to the Nation's capital 
to seek our help in so many endeavors that they are engaged in their 
families and their livelihoods, but there are a few who are very 
special. They stand out in our professional life. They stand out as our 
peers and our colleagues.
  Bob Matsui was a very special person, for all of the reasons that my 
colleagues have said here tonight. We all know that at his core was the 
gold standard in conviction, in morality and integrity and in giving us 
the unvarnished truth from time to time when we did not agree with him.
  I think that is one of the reasons we were so fond of him. When you 
had a disagreement with him, he sought you out and he wanted to discuss 
it with you, face-to-face, person-to-person, colleague-to-colleague, 
trying to work out the difficulties to make this a better country, but 
when you discussed it with him, you understood that he was clinging to 
principle, and he was clinging to integrity because it was the core of 
his existence.
  Many have referred to the fact of this family's experience in the 
internment camp, and I do not think there is any question but that gave 
him a compass to set a course on the issues of social justice and 
opportunity in this society and civil rights. It is unparalleled, I 
think.
  We all work in these fields, and we have some outstanding individuals 
in this Congress that I have served with over 30 years who have fought 
these fights. Bob was one of those.
  I had the opportunity to work with him on the reparations bill and in 
the Manzanar Historic Monument bill of one of the internment camps so 
that this country could remember what happened in the Tule Lake and the 
other internment centers.
  I do not know what else to say except that this is the loss of a 
really, really special person who was a wonderful friend, who was a 
great, great credit to this institution and who leaves behind a 
magnificent legacy along with a magnificent family, a family that no 
spouse or father could have been more proud of than he was of Doris and 
Brian and daughter-in-law Amy and this new granddaughter Anna.
  To see him and Doris at public events, engaged in their community and 
the partnership that they had and their conferring back and forth on 
the issues and the battles that he was engaged in, was a wonderful 
experience. I am going to miss him greatly. I think this country is 
going to miss him even more.
  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the 
gentleman from California (Mr. Lewis), our wonderful colleague.
  Mr. LEWIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman very 
much for the time.
  I very much apologize being as late as I am. I meant to be here 
earlier, but I am glad I walked in as my colleague the gentleman from 
California (Mr. George Miller) was making his remarks, for the emotion 
that we could feel in his very presence and voice is a reflection of 
how all of us feel, and I join in this celebration of our friend Bob 
Matsui.
  All of us who care about public affairs and the Congress absolutely 
know that fundamental to our success in solving people's problems 
involves our understanding of just how important people are to our 
entire process.
  The gentleman from California (Mr. George Miller) and I got to know 
each other first in Sacramento, and at that very time, overlapping our 
service, our friend Bob Matsui was serving on the city council. I 
learned to get to know Bob in a different venue, however, for he and I 
were elected in 1978 and came here as freshman, not so long ago.
  Bob Matsui, as you have heard from many a person, is a fabulous, 
fabulous reflection of the best of public affairs.
  I would like my colleagues to know that while we all believe public 
policy is what we should really be about, looking for the solutions to 
problems that the people care about, looking for alternative avenues 
for making a difference, when it comes to it in the final analysis we 
are all in this together.

[[Page 94]]



                              {time}  2030

  The American public has grown tired of that rhetoric that we hear all 
too often that reflects the fringe of our dialogue; and far from that 
fringe but rather right in the heart of the best of us was a 
personality we have been discussing today, Robert Matsui of Sacramento, 
of the Committee on Ways and Means, a wonderful, wonderful human being, 
who was willing to look you in the eye, tell you what he thought when 
he disagreed with you. All too often, and much more, he was putting his 
arm around you and telling you what you did well and what he thought of 
you on the positive side.
  If we could take the extreme from our rhetoric and the dialogue 
around here and remember Bob Matsui suddenly because of that, this 
House, great as it is, would indeed be an even better place.
  I am pleased to take just a moment to express to Doris, their family, 
all their friends in Sacramento, how much we will miss them and how 
much we pain for especially his personal family. Our own friends in 
Sacramento who remain have talked often about the greatness of this 
man. We only had a chance by getting to know that by having the 
privilege of serving with him here.
  With that, let me bid Bob adieu and join with all of his dear friends 
here in expressing our love and prayers for not just his family, but 
the future, the future of those he served, and know that we will all 
miss his service.
  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself 5 minutes.
  We have heard tonight so many of our colleagues speak of Bob and 
describe Bob in so many different ways. He was a great American. We are 
in mourning in this House. His constituents are in mourning. California 
is in mourning, and the Nation has lost a giant.
  Bob was a giant through and through. He grew up in Sacramento out in 
the valley, went to Cal Berkeley, went to law school at Hastings 
College of Law. He was the first Asian American to hold a leadership 
position in the House of Representatives. When I became the chairperson 
of the California Democratic Delegation in the 108th Congress, and he 
had always been a mentor to me, he upped his mentorship of me at that 
time. It is something I have always been immensely grateful for.
  We have talked about his leadership on a variety of issues: Social 
Security, the reparations bills, and health care for children. The list 
goes on and on. But we are mourning him today as someone we knew also 
as a friend.
  Some in the papers have said he was mild-mannered, and my thought was 
that the Bob I knew was tough as nails and focused. Yes, he was mild-
mannered. He was polite is what he was, but he never lost focus on what 
he was for. He loved his parents because they gave him a framework to 
understand the world. And it is important to understand that a great 
injustice was done to his family and to him, but he was never bitter 
about that because it allowed him to appreciate also the gift he was 
given, as so many of us were, of opportunity here in America.
  I believe that is really what fueled his passion here for the issues 
he fought for, the opportunity that others should have that was given 
to him. It was not just limited to his constituents, whom he loved 
dearly, but was for all Americans.
  I can recall several years ago a situation in Silicon Valley. He was 
very interested in technology. Entrepreneurs had been hit with a weird 
tax and had lost everything in the AMT-ISO disaster. These were Silicon 
Valley people, but Bob came from Sacramento and sat all day in San Jose 
to listen to their stories because he cared about them, whether they 
were his constituents or not.
  Bob was one of our most compassionate Members, one of our most 
focused Members, but I also want to talk about Bob the family person. I 
do not think there was ever a son as brilliant as Brian, if you 
listened to Bob. Nor was there a daughter-in-law as wonderful as Amy; 
and never a grandchild as creative and adorable as Anna; not to mention 
his wonderful spouse, Doris. Many of us have spouses. We love our 
spouses, but Doris had almost a unique relationship among spouses in 
the House because not only was she Bob's life partner, she was Bob's 
partner in political life and in policy life. She stood up for the 
people of the Fifth District of California every bit as much as Bob 
Matsui stood up for those people. We thank Doris for her many, many 
years of service with Bob for those constituents and for Americans.
  Just a final word. Bob had said he was having a few health problems. 
I had no idea how serious they were; but certainly Bob Matsui knew how 
serious they were. Even though Bob knew he was ill, he kept working for 
us. He was chair of the DCCC, not because he was on an ego trip. In 
fact, he did not want the job; we made him do it. He fought those 
fights because he believed that the ideals of the Democratic Party for 
Social Security, for a safety net, for education, for opportunity for 
hard-working people who play by the rules to get ahead, those were 
values that were core to him. And even though he put his own health at 
risk, he fought on for us.
  I want to thank Doris for allowing him to do that. It is a sacrifice 
that is immense. We all feel the loss today. I thank Doris; his 
wonderful son, Brian; Amy; his granddaughter, Anna. I think back on the 
many times we spent in California enjoying ourselves. He was a Cal 
graduate, but it did not stop him from being a Stanford fan as well, 
which I always appreciated.
  I loved Bob Matsui, as did the entire delegation. We miss him a great 
deal. Other people will follow his steps, but no one will be able to 
fill them completely in our hearts.
  Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. 
Pelosi).
  Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chair of our California 
Democratic Delegation for her wonderful words about Bob Matsui.
  Anyone who did not know Bob Matsui and just turned on the television 
tonight would have to be impressed by the array of comments from so 
many different Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle about 
this exceptional person. There is no way to exaggerate how wonderful he 
was. He was a person of great intellect and great passion. He was a 
person of great gentility and of great strength when it came to 
debating his points.
  Ever since Members and colleagues and staff on the Hill and reporters 
and the media learned of his death, they have come and said, Bob Matsui 
would go out of his way to come by and say hello. He always smiled, he 
always asked about people's well-being and how they were doing and 
could he be helpful. He was a gentle man. But again, he had a strength 
about him that if he thought on a matter of public policy someone was 
abandoning the children of America or the seniors of America or 
America's working families, he made it quite clear to them that in his 
eyes he was losing respect for them because he thought that is what we 
came here to do.
  So many Members have talked about his talent, his personality, his 
love of family which was preeminent because at the end of the day that 
is, of course, what matters most. I visited Doris Matsui on Sunday 
evening to extend the condolences of Bob's colleagues to her, and to 
say how magnificently received Bob was after the election; that even 
though we did not win, every time his name was mentioned or he was 
introduced, he would receive a standing ovation from the members of the 
Democratic Caucus because he dealt with them honestly. He worked so 
hard and so smartly for our success, it just was not to be; but they 
appreciated the leadership he provided.
  Just to talk about a few things, we had the occasion the last night 
that we were here, December 8, to have a dinner in appreciation of 
those who helped us in our efforts. We surprised Bob because it was 
turned on him, and we expressed our appreciation to him. The gentleman 
from New York (Mr. Rangel), the ranking member, was so eloquent and 
spoke from the heart about Bob Matsui. It really was stunning to Bob. 
It was a gift that God gave us that

[[Page 95]]

we would have that opportunity to express appreciation to him. This is 
a very, very modest man and all of that attention was stunning to him.
  So when I said to Doris, remember the dinner and it was so wonderful, 
she said he talked about it so much and he talked about the toast of 
the gentleman from New York (Mr. Rangel) and how the Members expressed 
their appreciation and how surprised he was and how much it meant to 
him.
  So to my Democratic colleagues, thank you for the generosity that you 
extended to Bob Matsui. I hope it is a comfort to those of us who loved 
him and all of us in our caucus that we did have an opportunity to say 
thank you to him in a very special way. It was quite remarkable. I 
think all of my colleagues will agree that my colleagues were clamoring 
for Bob to be reappointed to the DCCC. Indeed, he had that opportunity, 
and he was willing to serve, except God had other plans.
  It is important to note that in the summer of this year one of Bob's 
very closest friends, Steve Thompson, exactly Bob's age, was diagnosed 
just a few weeks before he died, and it was a complete and total 
surprise. He, like Bob, was a very respected member in the Sacramento, 
California, community. They were very dear friends since seventh grade. 
When Bob came to his new school, not a very athletic appearance anyway, 
Steve was a big man on campus and he said he just wrapped his arm 
around Bob Matsui and that made it okay for everybody, and they were 
friends for life.
  Nobody would have ever expected 6 months ago that death would mean 
this summer for Steve and now for Bob. In any case, Steve's death took 
a lot out of Bob. He seemed so saddened by it, as we are saddened by 
his passing. In any event, Doris told us that Bob left us peacefully, 
just the way he lived, surrounded by people who loved him. Again, Anna 
saying Da-da. He took her to his office on December 23, had their 
pictures taken in front of the Capitol. Well, when you have been here 
26 years, a picture in front of the Capitol is a picture at your desk 
because he had a special office. It was his plan, and he was bragging 
about it that he was going to take Anna to be here today with him 
because she was born since the last swearing-in. Again that was not to 
be.
  In any event, when Anna is old enough to read about her grandfather, 
she will know he was one of the most dedicated public servants in our 
country. He was a true patriot, he was a decent man, he loved his 
family, and he was a best friend to almost everybody in the Congress of 
the United States.
  There is so much to say, but everybody knows that our thoughts and 
prayers are with Doris, Brian, Amy and Anna who shared Bobby with us 
and inspired his commitment for a brighter future for America.
  Imagine that his family and he as a small child were in a Japanese 
internment camp. Again, as the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Zoe 
Lofgren) said, it only heightened his love for America because he knew 
that we could do better and he would be a part of that. I will close by 
saying that one of the pleasures we had at this dinner on December 8, 
as the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Lewis) reminds me, I always said 
during the campaign that Bob Matsui was a maestro, that he was 
orchestrating all of this activity all over the country. This man who 
unbeknownst to us had this diagnosis, and it was not supposed to be 
fatal, but the pneumonia was.

                              {time}  2045

  In any event, he would be working so hard for senior citizens all day 
on a Social Security issue and orchestrating hundreds, thousands of 
young people throughout the country to be involved in campaigns to make 
the future better. He had a way of channeling the enthusiasm that he 
had for issues into the activism that was necessary to make a 
difference.
  At this party we gave him a baton recognizing the maestro that he was 
and is. We will just miss him terribly.
  The poet Longfellow wrote:

     ``Were a star quenched on high,
     For ages would its light,
     Still traveling downward from the sky,
     Shine on our mortal sight.
     So when a great man dies,
     For years beyond our ken,
     The life he leaves behind him lies
     Upon the paths of men.''

  Bob Matsui's light will always shine, one that will guide us to a 
better America, and that was his dream.
  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the 
balance of my time.
  I would like to conclude by thanking all of those who have 
participated this evening as well as some of our colleagues who were 
unable to actually physically be here but who have prepared their 
statements for our colleague, a giant of the legislature, a man who 
warmed our hearts, who broke our hearts when he died, someone who was 
never petty, always modest but always a leader, always someone who 
could make America proud.
  Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I would like to add my remarks to the 
glowing ones we have heard regarding the untimely passing of our dear 
colleague, Bob Matsui. To have known Bob Matsui is to be heartbroken by 
his death. I believe that our Republican colleagues would agree. 
Especially for Democrats, however, the loss is profoundly felt three 
times over. First, there was the man whose human dimensions of 
kindness, consideration, and friendly persuasion made him instantly 
likeable and one of the most admired and respected members across the 
political spectrum. Second, there was the successful party leader, who 
had just completed his term as a hugely successful chair of the 
Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. And third, there was the 
Democratic seer of social security whom we were depending upon to lead 
us through the coming crucial social security debate, one of the 
several subjects whose byzantine complexities Bob had mastered as third 
ranking on the Ways and Means Committee. Congress and the country could 
not afford to lose even one of these three Bob Matsuis. Now, sadly we 
have lost all three. As we mourn the loss of one of the country's most 
effective public servants, we celebrate our good fortune that Bob 
Matsui gave his life to public service.
  Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend my condolences to 
the family of Bob Matsui. Bob was my friend for 13 years. Even though 
we sat on opposite sides of the aisle we shared a bond as fellow 
Californians, and he always had my utmost respect.
  In this House Bob always strove to do the best for his district, his 
State, and his country. He entered Congress with a distinguished class 
in 1978 and made a lasting impression. His 26 years here were an 
example of how a man can be an effective promoter of his party and the 
consummate gentleman at the same time. Even in the most partisan of 
positions, chairman of his party's Congressional Campaign Committee, 
Bob took the high road and set an example for us to follow. He was a 
man of unparalleled integrity, compassion, intelligence and dedication.
  I will miss Bob Matsui. I know that the people of California, the 
United States, and the Members of this body share my sentiments.
  Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in profound sadness to express my 
deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the Honorable Robert 
Matsui. I was shocked to learn of the untimely death of our colleague 
and friend Bob, with whom I was so fortunate to serve for 24 years.
  Bob was truly a great man who triumphed over adversity to help lead 
our Nation. During World War II the United States wrongfully interned 
120,000 American citizens and permanent resident aliens of Japanese 
ancestry. From his earliest days, Bob faced this brutal devastation as 
he and his family were rounded up, torn from their home and sent to the 
desolation of a detention camp in Tule Lake, CA.
  Tempered by tragedy, Bob walked from the darkness of that detention 
to lead the fight for passage of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988. That 
historic legislation acknowledged the fundamental injustice of the 
internment, apologized on behalf of the people of the United States and 
made restitution to those interned. He called upon us to serve a high 
purpose and reminded us that while we addressed the injustice done, we 
were also protecting fundamental American values enshrined in our 
Constitution.
  This remarkable accomplishment gave added weight to United States 
human rights policy and credibility to our statements about other 
countries' human rights violations. While no amount of apology or 
restitution fully rectifies the denial of human rights, Bob understood 
that the acknowledgment of this past injustice was an important step 
forward. Bob and I shared that commitment to improve civil rights and 
human rights all over the world.
  Bob Matsui's long involvement in public service resulted in an 
impressive record of

[[Page 96]]

success in Sacramento and Washington. Among other achievements he was a 
legislative leader on Social Security as a member of the House Ways and 
Means Committee. He rallied House Democrats with integrity and spirit 
as Chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.
  We mourn the loss of a good and decent man, a leader with such 
virtue, a fellow Californian, and a friend. We will carry a heavier 
burden without his strength to depend upon. My wife Annette and I 
extend our wishes of solace and peace for his wife Doris, his son 
Brian, his daughter-in-law Amy and his granddaughter Anna during this 
most difficult time.
  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember a dedicated public 
servant and great friend, Robert T. Matsui.
  It was a privilege and honor serving with Bob. Although we only 
served together for one term, I learned a great deal from Bob--starting 
when I worked at the other end of Pennsylvania Avenue--about protecting 
Social Security, expanding free trade, welfare reform, and giving 
American families more opportunities to prosper.
  His selfless determination, borne from his early childhood 
experiences--resulted in a lifelong commitment to heal our Nation's 
wounds and make amends for past wrongs.
  Answering President John F. Kennedy's call, Bob inspired generations 
of Americans who dedicated themselves to public service, including 
minorities and the Asian-American community in particular.
  His leadership in this Chamber resulted in a formal apology for the 
treatment of Japanese-Americans interned and discriminated against 
during World War II.
  Bob never shied away from difficult debates. While seeking innovative 
ways to help America's employees stay competitive in the global 
economy, he championed President Clinton's North American Fair Trade 
Agreement and secured a strong, bipartisan vote in the House for 
permanent free trade relations with China.
  His efforts helped fuel the largest economic expansion in our 
Nation's history, and opened new lines of communication and cultural 
understanding around the world.
  We will miss Bob's strong and uncompromising leadership on Social 
Security, a void in this Chamber that will be very difficult to fill.
  Mr. Speaker, Robert Matsui was a man I was proud to call my friend. 
May God bless his wife Doris and the Matsui family in this difficult 
hour as we honor the memory of a man truly loved and respected by his 
peers and his country, and whose contributions will always be 
remembered in this Chamber.
  Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join my colleagues in 
expressing profound sorrow on the loss of one of this House's most 
highly respected and widely regarded members, the Honorable Bob Matsui 
of Sacramento.
  With his passing, we have lost a national conscience in Congress. 
Although I had the privilege to serve with him for only 2 of his 26 
years of distinguished service in the House, it did not take long for 
me to realize after arriving here as a freshman, that he was truly a 
man of distinction. His leadership in many ways was subtle, but firm 
and strong.
  I had the honor of serving with him on the Congressional Asian 
Pacific American Caucus, and recognize today, along with many Asian 
Americans and Pacific Islanders, his long-standing commitment and 
contributions to the progress of our communities. It was through his 
diligence, as many have recounted and memorialized this evening, that 
healing and justice was brought through the enactment of Civil 
Liberties Act of 1988, which authorized reparations and a formal 
apology to surviving Japanese Americans who had been detained in U.S. 
concentration camps during World War II. This is just but one of the 
lasting landmark accomplishments of his leadership.
  On so many other accounts and in so many other ways, he was there for 
those in need of a voice in Congress. A reliable and true public 
servant, for the disadvantaged, for our seniors, and for our young 
Americans, who he inspired with his example and character.
  Bob Matsui was gifted leader who epitomized the noblest qualities of 
public service. On behalf of the people of Guam, I extend our deepest 
sympathies to his wife, Doris and their family and to the people of the 
fifth District of California.
  Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, when I opened my holiday cards this season, 
one in particular stood out. It was bigger than the others. It was more 
colorful. It had several pictures instead of just one. It was from the 
Matsui family, and just about every picture included young Anna Matsui, 
Bob's only grandchild.
  The love that this man had for his family, and this little girl in 
particular, practically jumped off the page. It saddens me deeply that 
Anna won't grow up knowing more of her grandpa, but I am certain that 
her parents and her grandmother will not let her forget him. She will 
grow up strengthened by his leadership, his integrity, and his 
kindness.
  I couldn't look at Anna's pictures without thinking that, when Bob 
was her age, he was living in an internment camp with other Japanese-
Americans who had been rounded up and incarcerated after the attack on 
Pearl Harbor. It was, of course, one of the great stains on our 
Nation's history, and Bob spent his public life trying to somehow 
correct that ugly injustice. I imagine that Bob's connection to Anna 
was stronger because his own early years were so unsettled, because he 
wanted his granddaughter to have a childhood full of innocence and 
happy memories.
  Bob Matsui stood out in this Chamber--for his policy intellect; for 
his sense of compassion and justice; for the esteem he earned on both 
sides of the aisle; but most of all for his fundamental decency. That 
decency was apparent in his work, whether he was securing flood 
protection for Sacramento or fighting for Social Security. And there's 
no question that we'll miss Bob Matsui's expertise as we debate the 
future of Social Security this year.
  There was no separation between Bob Matsui's private virtues and 
public virtues. They were one and the same. He treated everyone with 
respect; he didn't raise his voice a lot; he was a lot more steak than 
sizzle. To be honest, these are qualities that are not in abundance 
around here these days. I hope that our memories of Bob Matsui will 
lead us to conduct ourselves with greater civility in this new 
Congress.
  Very few of us knew that Bob was sick, which is why the news of his 
death came as such a shock. But that modesty was consistent with the 
way Bob lived. Rather than go public with his illness, he preferred 
simply to be surrounded by the love of his family.
  Of course, even the most unassuming among us have another side to 
them. As I was reading the obituary in the Sacramento Bee, I was taken 
aback by one friend's remembrance--of a shirtless Bob Matsui in the 
stands at a Cal football game rabidly rooting for his team and 
challenging the other team's fans.
  Now, if you asked the Members of this body to rank their colleagues 
in order of most likely to remove their shirt off at a football game . 
. . Bob would've finished close to 435th of 435. And remember that 
includes more than 70 women.
  Our thoughts and prayers are with Bob's wife, Doris Matsui, whom all 
of us know as an impressive advocate and public servant in her own 
right. And with Brian, Amy and Anna Matsui and everyone who loved this 
dear man. Bob Matsui--rest in peace.
  Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of a man 
who represented the best in American politics and government.
  Congressman Matsui was what many of us aspire to be as lawmakers. He 
was a passionate advocate for his constituents, upheld the highest 
ethical standards, and conducted himself with the utmost civility.
  He never failed to be there for others who were less experienced. 
When I first ran for Congress, he served as my mentor. Bob visited my 
district several times, and we became good friends. I appreciated his 
advice and benefited greatly from his expertise on issues such as 
Social Security.
  But I was most impressed with how Bob went about his daily business 
calmly and with a composure that helped him gain the respect that he 
deserved.
  His devotion to others was remarkable and unrelenting, and he could 
always be relied upon to do the right thing. His contributions to our 
country, particularly on behalf of Japanese Americans, will never be 
forgotten.
  We are all better for his efforts. While I am greatly saddened that 
he is no longer with us, it is my honor to be able to recognize and pay 
tribute to such a fine American.
  Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support this resolution to 
express profound sorrow upon the death of Congressman Matsui. I join my 
colleagues to honor and remember my good friend Congressman Bob Matsui, 
a true leader in the House of Representatives whose passing leaves us 
all with a sense of great loss.
  I would like to thank my colleagues, Congressman Stark and 
Congresswoman Lofgren, and the rest of the California Democratic 
Delegation for their swift leadership to pay tribute to our friend, 
Bob.
  I would like to say ``thank you'' to Doris, his wife and life-long 
partner, to his son Brian, his daughter-in-law Amy, and to his 
granddaughter for sharing him with us in Congress. In addition to the 
adoration of his wonderful family, Bob had the love and respect of both 
his constituents and his colleagues. He was a courageous and passionate 
leader who served California's Fifth Congressional District for 26 
years.

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  As a Member of Congress and as chair of the Congressional Asian 
Pacific American Caucus, CAPAC, I had the honor of working with 
Congressman Matsui. Bob was instrumental in making CAPAC a reality, and 
served as a CAPAC executive board member since its inception in 1994.
  Throughout his career, Congressman Matsui championed causes affecting 
civil liberties and immigrants' rights. As a dedicated member of the 
Asian Pacific Islander American, APIA, community, Bob fought for a 
formal apology from our government for its wrongful internment of 
Japanese Americans during World War II. Congressman Matsui and 
Secretary Norman Mineta led the way in passing the Civil Liberties Act 
of 1988. As an American of Japanese ancestry, Congressman Matsui helped 
obtain the land necessary for the National Japanese American Memorial, 
which recognizes Japanese American patriotism and honors members for 
never losing faith in the basic principles embodied in our Nation's 
Constitution.
  Along with Congressman Matsui and Secretary Mineta, I experienced 
internment as a young Japanese American during World War II. Bob was 
only 6 months old when he and his family were interned at the Tule Lake 
camp just months after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Bob understood the 
injustice of internment and sympathized with the other loyal Americans 
who suffered at the hands of the government in which they never lost 
faith.
  Bob Matsui listened to people, and set about helping them with 
compassion and dignity. Whether he was fighting for flood control on 
behalf of his constituents in Sacramento or defending those without a 
voice, Bob dedicated his entire career to public service. From the time 
he worked as a member of the Sacramento City Council, to serving as the 
vice mayor of Sacramento, and finally as a U.S. Representative starting 
in 1978, Bob Matsui served as a constant reminder of what integrity and 
dedication can accomplish in public office.
  Congressman Matsui truly believed in the U.S. Constitution and its 
promise of ``a more Perfect Union.'' He relied on those values embedded 
in the Constitution in fights to ensure adequate healthcare for 
children and provide a safety net for needy families and the elderly. 
Bob's leadership as the third ranking Democrat on the House Ways and 
Means Committee and the ranking member on the Social Security 
Subcommittee earned him the reputation as an expert on tax and trade 
policy, Social Security and welfare programs. In the 109th Congress, 
Bob's presence, heart, and soul will be missed during the great debate 
over Social Security.
  Mr. Speaker, Bob Matsui should ultimately be remembered for his 
civility, his dignity, and his service to others. He was a selfless 
role model whose footprint will forever be imprinted on our Nation's 
history.
  Mrs. JONES of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life 
and legacy of the Honorable Robert Matsui who served Sacramento, CA, 
for 27 years. Just last month, Representative Matsui was reelected to 
another term by a winning percentage of 71.4 percent. Sadly, he passed 
from this life on New Year's Day, January 1, 2005.
  For the past 2 years, I have been honored to serve with 
Representative Matsui on the Ways and Means Committee and its Social 
Security Subcommittee. During that time, I observed that Bob had a deep 
understanding of Social Security and tax policy, which was reflected in 
his masterful handling of committee work and interactions with 
colleagues.
  He was a Congressperson's Congressperson. He was a great leader. He 
was generous with his time and his talent. He was willing to share the 
limelight. On several occasions he invited me to serve as ranking 
member on the Social Security Subcommittee, what a privilege. His 
generosity will be sorely missed.
  As the 109th Congress convenes today, it is fitting that we honor Bob 
Matsui's legacy. During the 109th Congress we will undertake 
discussions on gutting the Social Security program, a program that Bob 
understood as an important safety net for not only senior citizens but 
also disabled persons and minor children of deceased parents. Bob was a 
strong proponent of the idea that privatizing Social Security would 
lead to its demise by making it financially unviable. He worked 
tirelessly to reform the program and make it operate more efficiently, 
without compromising its purpose.
  A biblical proverb states that ``Good men must die, but death cannot 
kill their names.'' Representative Robert Matsui's legacy will live on 
in the Congress as we continue his longstanding work to preserve Social 
Security and our country's ideals of helping those who need and deserve 
it. We will miss him, but his name will not be forgotten.
  Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, the death of Congressman Robert Matsui is 
a tremendous loss for his family, the families he represented in 
California and everyone who knew him. Bob was a wonderful man, a kind 
and gentle spirit who loved his job and the people he worked for, and I 
feel privileged to have served as his colleague in the U.S. House of 
Representatives.
  Throughout his distinguished career in public service, Congressman 
Matsui, a third generation American, vigorously defended justice and 
fairness--values forged very early in his life when his family was 
imprisoned in the Tule Lake internment camp in California during World 
War II. Despite being interned as a young boy, Bob remained optimistic 
and determined that everyone should be treated equally and with 
respect. He believed in the promise of America and took from his 
experience, a strong belief in civil rights as well as a passion for 
public service.
  In Congress, Mr. Matsui was steadfast in acting on these values, 
championing basic rights for all Americans and leading the effort in 
which the U.S. Government formally apologized to Japanese Americans for 
the World War II internment program. In the 26 years that he served in 
the U.S. House of Representatives, Bob rose to national prominence as a 
senior member of the powerful Ways and Means Committee, a national 
spokesman for Social Security, and as the first Asian American in the 
leadership of Congress.
  As a crusader for America's seniors, Mr. Matsui led the fight to 
preserve Social Security. He reached out to Members, new and old, 
helping them understand the complexities of Social Security as well as 
its impact on the daily lives of our seniors.
  Bob truly exemplified a gentleman. He served with distinction and 
integrity, winning the respect and admiration of all who worked with 
him.
  I extend my deepest condolences to the Matsui family--his wife Doris, 
son Brian, daughter-in-law Amy and granddaughter Anna--as well as to 
his staff and the people of California. Bob's integrity, devotion and 
compassion will be greatly missed.
  Mr. ISRAEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a sad heart to honor a 
great man, a dedicated public servant and a good friend. In our own 
ways, each of us will miss something special about Bob Matsui. Let me 
share with my colleagues my own experience with him.
  Bob Matsui gave me my first job on Capitol Hill. In July, 1979, I 
went to work for him as a part-time assistant, entering constituent 
information into a computer, and then helping to write legislative 
correspondence. Bob was a freshman Member then, but even at that time I 
realized he was to have a long and brilliant career in the Congress. 
Twenty-two years later we reunited on the floor. Just recently I showed 
him a photograph we took together on the steps of the Capitol. The 
color was faded and the paper brittle. But I kept it throughout the 
years to remind me of the first Member of Congress who gave me an 
opportunity in public service.
  Bob Matsui embodied the best values of public service. He believed so 
strongly in opportunity here at home and through sensible trade 
policies abroad. It was an honor to have had the opportunity to learn 
from a man who put the good of his constituents and of Americans 
generally over partisanship and political one-upsmanship. It is a 
lesson I have strived to apply during my own tenure in this body.
  Bob Matsui set an example for all of us with his integrity and 
dedication. He will be greatly missed.
  Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise to 
express my deepest regrets over the loss of my friend and colleague, 
Bob Matsui.
  My thoughts and prayers are with the Matsui family--especially Doris, 
Brian, Amy, and Anna.
  Our country has lost a great leader. Bob Matsui personified integrity 
and passion. He served California and America with great conviction and 
dedication to his beliefs.
  Bob Matsui was an inspiration to all Americans. Although he was taken 
to a Japanese American internment camp at only 6 months old, he never 
gave up his dedication to bettering our great country. He later became 
a leader of the movement for redress of Japanese-Americans interned 
during World War II. Even though much time had passed, he still sought 
justice for all Americans.
  Bob Matsui also fought tirelessly for America's senior citizens. As 
ranking member of the Social Security Subcommittee, he worked 
diligently to protect seniors' retirement funds He strongly opposed 
risky schemes to privatize Social Security and worked to make seniors 
aware of the faults of these plans.
  As chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Bob 
Matsui passionately believed in the message of the Democratic Party, 
and dedicated himself tirelessly to spreading that message.

[[Page 98]]

  Bob Matsui is an inspiration to all Americans. His strong desire to 
serve his community and his country led him to become one of the most 
beloved leaders of this Congress.
  Bob Matsui will be missed by his country, his community, his family 
and his friends. He will long be remembered as a great American 
statesman.
  Mr. ORTIZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to our departed 
college, Bob Matsui. Bob was an extraordinarily talented patriot and 
Member of this House.
  Bob's generation of House Members struck out to change the world--or 
at least change their government in the aftermath of Watergate and the 
abuses of power in the Nixon administration. He did change the world, 
representing a district in California and representing the House on the 
world stage.
  He was a unique political mind and political talent. While he was 
passionate for caring for the less fortunate in our society, he was 
also pragmatic about how democratic ideals and reforms come about on 
the world stage.
  We shared the philosophy that world trade engenders better 
relationships between nations and offers a greater opportunity to 
spread democracy to developing nations or nations that were not 
traditionally democratic.
  Bob's greatest legislative talent--and there were many--was his down-
to-earth ability to comprehend and explain in laymen's terms all 
matters related to Social Security. In this political season when the 
President has made clear his intention to raid Social Security, we will 
most certainly miss Bob's leadership in this important and fundamental 
debate in Congress.
  Today the Nation says goodbye to a decent and big minded colleague. 
Bob was not afraid to learn. And he was not afraid to forgive. Even 
after his family was interned as a child--with Japanese Americans at 
the outbreak of WWII--Bob forgave the people who imprisoned his family. 
He forgave his country, then he went on to serve this Nation with 
enormous talent.
  Bob wanted to make the world better. He did make the world a better 
place and he made the House of Representatives a better place given his 
presence in it. He deeply believed in what he said, but he was open 
enough to listen to--and hear--the ideas of others, as well.
  I will miss him . . . we will all miss him. And we offer our deepest 
condolences to his dear wife, Doris, and his son, Brian.
  Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight to honor one of our country's 
great leaders, and a dear friend Congressman Robert Matsui.
  Bob Matsui was a valued colleague to every member of the House. He 
was a leading expert on countless issues that have a profound effect on 
the lives of millions of Americans, not the least of which is Social 
Security. From his seat on the Ways and Means Committee, Bob fought on 
behalf of seniors and children, and sought to build thoughtful 
bipartisan consensus on one tough issue after another.
  Bob approached this job with grace, fairness, and dignity. Even 
though he was chairman of our Party's political committee, he never put 
partisanship above principle. His intelligence was only exceeded by his 
compassion. We always refer to one another as ``gentleman'' and 
``gentle lady'' on this floor, but there is no Member of Congress for 
whom the term ``gentleman'' is more appropriate. It is indeed fitting 
to hold this tribute on the day we swear in the new Congress, because 
the way Bob conducted himself should be a model for all of us--freshmen 
and senior Members alike.
  Bob was a cherished friend and valued mentor to both my late husband 
Walter and me. When Walter was first elected to Congress, Bob was one 
of the first people he sought out to ask for advice on his new job. As 
usual, Bob was generous with his time and his wisdom. We both learned 
much from him and I have relied on his policy insights and his 
political instincts more times than I can remember. I know that I will 
still instinctively look for him on the floor during a tough vote.
  Mr. Speaker, Bob and Doris Matsui were there for my family and for me 
when Walter passed away. Today I extend to Doris, Brian, Amy, Anna, and 
Bob's staff my most heartfelt condolences. I understand how difficult 
this time is for them. But I am buoyed by knowing that strength in 
families is never more evident, and important, than during times of 
adversity and grief. The Matsuis are a strong and wonderful family, and 
that, perhaps, is Bob's finest legacy of all.
  We will miss Bob Matsui very much. But we will never, ever forget 
him.
  Mr. MORAN of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, this past Saturday, our country 
lost two beloved public servants. Representative Robert T. Matsui and 
former Representative Shirley Chisholm leave us behind, but our 
national consciousness will never forget their considerable 
contributions to pursuing equality and social justice for all 
Americans. Representatives Matsui and Chisholm dedicated so much of 
themselves to others, and the outpouring of support demonstrates the 
deep impact each had on the lives of others.
  Both leaders rose from humble beginnings to the heights of Congress. 
Representative Matsui, one of the thousands of Japanese Americans taken 
to an internment camp during World War II, became an influential member 
on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. His passion for social 
justice shaped the core of his being, reverberating through his 
promotion of adequate job training, equal access to health care 
coverage for children, and the preservation of Social Security for our 
nation's seniors and disabled citizens. In 1988, he helped win 
restitution from the U.S. Government for the internment program that 
negatively affected many surviving Japanese Americans.
  Representative Chisholm too overcame great obstacles. As the product 
of the working neighborhoods of Brooklyn, Shirley Chisholm became the 
first African American woman elected to Congress in 1968. Her advocacy 
on civil rights issues, particularly women's rights, was unparalleled 
as she reached out beyond her local constituency to all Americans. 
Never willing to allow America to mire in the status quo, 
Representative Chisholm again broke new ground by offering herself as 
the first woman to be considered for the Democratic presidential 
nomination in 1972.
  Though I never had the honor of serving with Representative Chisholm, 
her legacy echoes throughout the halls of Congress. I witness her 
strength in my colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus, which she 
helped establish in 1969. I hear her voice in our continued pleas for 
justice in underserved communities. And I see her focus and passion in 
the eyes of American children who won't accept discrimination or 
barriers to opportunity.
  Connected by the common bond of their love for humanity, 
Representatives Matsui and Chisholm treaded down unmarked paths with 
determination, fortitude, and notable grace. As a generation of civil 
rights activists move into the twilight of their advocacy, we must 
honor their work by passing along their vision for what we our country 
can still become, a land of equality and opportunity for all Americans. 
Though we have lost these dear friends too soon, we continue to be led 
by their unmistakable footprints.
  Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join in paying tribute to 
one of our colleagues whom we lost so unexpectedly on New Year's Day.
  Bob Matsui was one of the most respected Members of this House. 
During his 26 years of service in Congress, he was an advocate for our 
Nation's seniors, our children, and for social and economic justice.
  From his family's experience in the Japanese internment camps during 
World War II, Bob learned the importance of protecting the liberties 
and civil rights that are the foundation of this great country. As an 
Asian-American he understood the obstacles that minorities face in 
building opportunities for themselves and their families.
  Bob Matsui rose quickly to become a leader in this House because of 
his political savvy and his detailed knowledge of the issues.
  He was dedicated to this House and its institutions. He was also 
dedicated to the ideals of the Democratic party. We all know how 
tirelessly he worked as the chairman of the Democratic Congressional 
Campaign Committee.
  Many will remember Bob for his leadership in our party and on the 
critical national issues of trade and Social Security.
  It is true that he understood the values of free trade and the 
economic prosperity it can provide to communities. He was not afraid to 
stand up against even his own party on issues in which he passionately 
believed. As the ranking member of the Social Security Subcommittee, 
Bob was also a national expert on the subject of retirement and 
pension.
  His knowledge of the intricacies of the social security system and 
his wisdom will be sorely missed during this year's upcoming debate on 
Social Security reform.
  I, however, will remember Bob for something else. I will remember him 
as a friend and champion of migrant children and their families. Bob 
helped us in the fight for funding for Migrant Education Programs. For 
years he also hosted a college assistance migrant intern in his office.
  Many of his former interns are now leaders in their professions and 
communities because of the start Bob gave them.
  I want to express my deepest condolences to his family: his wife 
Doris, his son Brian, his daughter-in-law Amy and his granddaughter

[[Page 99]]

Anna. I know how proud Bob was of all of them. The people of California 
and of this Nation have truly lost a great advocate.
  Mr. SABO. Mr. Speaker, my family and I would like to convey our 
heartfelt sympathy to the Matsui family upon the death of Congressman 
Robert Matsui on Saturday, January 1.
  Bob's passing is a tragic loss to all who knew him. It is also a loss 
to all Americans who didn't know him personally but whose lives were 
enhanced by the legislation and the leadership he provided. Bob was one 
of the smartest and most principled people in Congress, a dedicated 
public servant, and a friend. He will be greatly missed in Congress, 
especially by me.
  First elected 26 years ago, Congressman Matsui and I entered the U.S. 
House of Representatives in the same incoming class. We were colleagues 
and friends throughout these years; our families each moved to the 
Washington area and our wives Sylvia and Doris also became good 
friends. One of my fond memories together was attending Brian and Amy's 
wedding in California a few years ago. Brian also gave me my first 
official tour of the U.S. Supreme Court facilities where he clerked 
recently. His parents were so proud.
  Sylvia and I are shocked and deeply saddened by Bob's passing, and we 
offer Doris and the Matsui family our most sincere condolences.
  Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my late colleague 
Robert T. Matsui. While his life was cut tragically short, his many 
achievements and contributions to our Nation will serve as a constant 
reminder of his hard work, integrity, and determination to advocate for 
those who were not able to fight for themselves.
  Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1978, Bob served the 
people of Sacramento for 14 terms focusing on the city's public safety 
by bringing adequate flood protection to his hometown. He also served 
as a senior member of the Committee on Ways and Means, covering an 
array of policy issues such as preserving Social Security for future 
generations, as well as having adequate basic healthcare rights for 
children. Most recently he served as chairman of the Democratic 
Congressional Campaign Committee leading the Democratic Party's 
congressional effort for the 2004 cycle.
  When he was 6 months old, Bob, a third-generation Japanese American, 
and his family were taken from their home in Sacramento and interned at 
the Tule Lake Camp after Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor in 1942. He 
carried this experience with him throughout his life. In 1988, he 
helped steer the Japanese-American Redress Act through Congress, in 
which the government formally apologized for the World War II 
internment program and offered compensation to victims. This experience 
helped shape his strong belief that every American is entitled to basic 
civil rights despite their ethnicity.
  Bob was also a member of the Executive Committee of the Congressional 
Asian Pacific American Caucus. Because of his many achievements and 
contributions, he was and always will be a role model to the more than 
eleven million Americans of Asian and Pacific Islander descent in our 
country.
  His presence and driving force will certainly be missed. However, his 
legacy will live on through the people of Sacramento, the Asian Pacific 
Islander American community and our Nation as a whole. I offer my 
deepest condolences to his wife, Doris, son, Brian, daughter-in-law, 
Amy and granddaughter, Anna. We will miss you, Bob. All Hawaii sends 
with you on your final journey our deepest and most loving Aloha.
  Mr. CARDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to my colleague and 
friend, Bob Matsui. As Members of Congress, many factors determine who 
we form close relationships with. One of those factors is committee 
assignment. I had the tremendous fortune of serving on the Ways and 
Means Committee with Bob Matsui for 15 years. As we worked on tax 
reform, trade, health, and many other issues, I learned many valuable 
lessons from him. His dedication to the people of his district and to 
all the people of this Nation shone through at every hearing and 
markup.
  He had a lifelong commitment to public service and the public good. 
Even though his early years were spent in a Japanese-American 
internment camp in California, that injustice did not dim his love and 
devotion to our country. He remained in California, served on the 
Sacramento City Council, and as vice mayor of Sacramento, and 
eventually came to this House, which he also loved so very much.
  For his entire career, he was devoted to the welfare of children, the 
promotion of free trade, and the preservation of Social Security for 
future generations. I know that the committee will miss his expertise 
and good counsel for many Congresses to come. I want to personally 
extend my heartfelt condolences to his wonderful wife Doris, his son 
Brian, daughter in-law Amy, and his granddaughter Anna. We will miss 
Bob and forever treasure his camaraderie.
  Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, this week our Nation has lost a great 
leader and statesman from my home State of California, Bob Matsui. And 
it is with a great deal of sadness that I join my colleagues to pay 
tribute to Bob's life and his distinguished record of service and 
accomplishments during his 26 years as a Member of the House of 
Representatives. A model of integrity and commitment to his district, 
his State and our Nation, Bob exemplified the best of this great 
institution.
  By having the privilege of representing an area of Los Angeles with a 
rich and diverse Asian-American population that includes Little Tokyo, 
Koreatown, Filipinotown, and Chinatown, I am very aware of the positive 
impact Bob had on the Asian-Pacific Islander community and the 
Japanese-American community in particular. Like so many Japanese-
Americans, Bob's early years were spent with his family in an 
internment camp during World War II. Anyone viewing the large photo of 
a youthful Bob Matsui with his little league baseball teammates which 
adorns his office wall was reminded of the difficult challenge an 
Asian-American faced growing up in 1950s California. As a young man in 
that volatile ethnic environment, Bob Matsui was a stand-out student 
who gained admittance to the University of California at Berkeley and 
distinguished himself academically both there and at the Hastings 
College of Law.
  His early experience became the foundation of his academic success as 
a young man, and ultimately led him to a career of distinguished public 
service, first for his local Sacramento City Council, then to this 
great House. His respect for this institution and his personal and 
professional integrity were well-known and helped Bob become a 
persuasive advocate on the issues he cared deeply about.
  As a member of the Energy and Water Subcommittee of the 
Appropriations Committee, I was honored to work with him on one of the 
most important issues to California--water. Bob's knowledge of water 
issues affecting our State, including southern California, and his long 
record of support for adequate flood control protection for the 
Sacramento area were brought to bear each year during our committee 
deliberations as we set priorities for funding the water projects so 
crucial to Sacramento and to California.
  Bob was also a strong advocate of trade and of protecting the rights 
of our senior citizens. In fact, as the ranking Democrat on the Ways 
and Means Subcommittee on Social Security, Bob was our Democratic 
expert and a leading advocate for the protection of this critical 
program. Bob was to be our Democratic point person for the upcoming and 
pivotal debate on Social Security. Understanding the importance of 
Social Security to our Nation's seniors and the need for the Democratic 
Party to effectively and successfully confront attacks on the system, 
his wife Doris told me that Bob continued to plan a Democratic strategy 
to the very end at Bethesda Naval Hospital.
  It was this kind of commitment coupled with his integrity and 
sincerity that helped to make Bob one of the most respected Members of 
Congress. This respect also made him one of the most successful 
chairmen of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. We all 
know that the DCCC set many records during the 2003-2004 election 
cycle. I believe this success stemmed from the leadership model that 
Bob conveyed at the DCCC's helm, and it was also a result of the great 
esteem in which Bob was held by all segments of our party. I was proud 
to serve with him as vice-chair of the DCCC, and Bob made sure it was 
indeed a working position. Few Members could have motivated me in quite 
the same way as Bob Matsui.
  In short, I will miss Bob as a friend and colleague. This House, the 
Democratic Party, and our Nation have lost a great statesman and a 
quiet and effective leader. His legacy of accomplishments as a trail-
blazing Asian-American Californian is unlikely to be surpassed. His 
dedication, dignity, and bipartisan approach to addressing the Nation's 
problems will be the hallmark of his legacy for both Republicans and 
Democrats.
  In this time of extreme partisanship and frequent legislative 
gridlock, it is my hope that we can all learn from the example of our 
friend and colleague, Bob Matsui.
  Mr. OXLEY. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in paying tribute to 
Congressman Bob Matsui of California. The American people will miss 
this outstanding public servant, and we in the House of Representatives 
will miss a skilled legislator who approached every issue with a fair 
mind.
  I've lost a friend. Bob and his wife Doris were friends of my wife 
Pat and me. Our son

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Chadd and their son, Brian, grew up together as congressional kids.
  For the past 2 years, Bob and I were hallmates. In fact, I moved into 
his old office on the third floor of the Rayburn building. He always 
had a smile and hello for anyone he passed in the hall, whether it was 
a fellow Member, a staffer, or a visitor.
  Bob Matsui was a courageous legislator. He showed great resolve in 
helping to win approval for the North American Free Trade Agreement. 
There isn't a tax or trade bill in the last 20 years that doesn't have 
his stamp on it. He was positively heroic when he had Congress squarely 
face the issue of the treatment of Japanese-Americans during World War 
II. Bob Matsui showed us the meaning of dignity and humility as he 
helped us to acknowledge a wrong. He and his parents were among those 
held in internment camps, but what was more important to him than his 
personal history was righting history for thousands of innocent 
Americans.
  Our thoughts and prayers are with Bob's family. As we start a new 
session of Congress, we should all look to the distinguished career of 
Bob Matsui as an example of how we can remain true to our ideals and 
beliefs while ultimately working together for the good of all 
Americans.
  Ms. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a respected colleague in 
the U.S. Congress whose recent passing will be mourned by all who knew 
him. With Congressman Robert Matsui's untimely death, America has lost 
a tireless leader.
  As a fellow Californian, I had the pleasure of working with 
Congressman Matsui on several issues of importance to our State. I 
admired his leadership and dedication to his constituency as well as 
the high level of integrity with which he served.
  Congressman Matsui's 26 years of service are filled with a remarkable 
number of legislative achievements such as his commitment to free trade 
that have bettered the lives of many Americans. He was a powerful and 
respected voice whose memory will continue to be an inspiration for 
many years to come.
  Congressman Robert Matsui was a true leader and served his 
constituents and country with honor and distinction. The people of 
Sacramento, California were fortunate to have such a talented person 
for their Representative in Congress.
  I will always remember Congressman Matsui's thoughtfulness; he was 
always quick with a smile and a kind word. He was a bridge for 
communication between both sides of the aisle. His legacy of effective 
leadership will be a model for those that follow him.
  My thoughts and prayers are with Doris and the entire Matsui family 
during this difficult time. Congressman Matsui's positive impact on his 
country will be remembered forever.
  Mrs. NAPOLITANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise 
today to honor a valued colleague and true gentleman, the late 
Congressman Bob Matsui. I met him when I served as a state legislator 
within his congressional district in Sacramento. Since that time, I 
have been taken by his approachability and his ability to make those 
around him feel that he is truly listening to their concerns.
  During his 26 years in Congress, he has been a champion on issues 
that affect the lives of all Californians and Americans, from 
protecting Social Security to working for civil rights. Congressman 
Matsui's fight against privatizing Social Security showed his deep 
commitment to fighting for the poor or less fortunate in our country. 
He led the efforts to ensure its fundamental purpose was never 
compromised.
  Congressman Matsui's strong belief in social justice is apparent by 
looking at the legislation he championed. He drafted bills that became 
the backbone for child welfare reform, proposing to expand the social 
services available to at-risk children and families in the child 
welfare, mental health and juvenile justice systems. He also fought 
welfare changes, arguing that adequate job training and education 
programs were essential to helping parents become self-sufficient. And 
his bipartisan work to provide health care coverage to uninsured 
children became the basis of the State Children's Health Insurance 
Program.
  His personal journey, however, could be his most lasting legacy. 
After spending his infancy in an internment camp during World War II, 
Congressman Matsui led the legislative effort to compensate victims of 
the camps and officially apologize to those held there. A grateful 
Japanese-American community is indebted to his work, as are the rest of 
us.
  I want to send my prayers and condolences to his family: his wife 
Doris, son Brian, daughter-in-law Amy and granddaughter Anna. For those 
of us who remain in Congress, we would like you to know that we will 
continue to fight for the causes and ideals that Bob fought for his 
entire life.
  Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, I am saddened by the sudden loss of Robert 
Matsui, and I would like to join my colleagues in honoring him today. 
Bob was one of the finest members to serve in the U.S. House of 
Representatives. His strength of character, wisdom, civility, and 
attention to detail were inspiring to many of us serving with him. His 
thoughtful and helpful nature has been remembered by many today, but I 
will always be grateful for his desire to seek out and befriend younger 
and less senior Members of Congress like me. I join my colleagues in 
mourning the loss of a friend, a mentor, and a great leader in 
Congress.
  Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Speaker, it is with sadness that I recognize 
the death of a former colleague and a great Californian, Representative 
Robert Matsui, who passed away earlier this week.
  A third-generation Japanese-American, Bob was born in Sacramento and 
was just a 6-month-old baby when he and his family were imprisoned at 
the Tule Lake internment camp following the attack on Pearl Harbor in 
1941. Forty years later, he was instrumental in passing the Japanese-
American Redress Act, which produced an official apology from the 
Federal Government for the World War II internment program and offered 
compensation to victims.
  Bob was a quiet and admired Member of Congress. His passion for 
issues he believed deeply in was respected by his colleagues on both 
sides of the aisle. He brought dignity and honor to the House of 
Representatives. Bob was a tax and trade maven on the House Ways and 
Means Committee, and his knowledge and expertise in these areas will be 
sorely missed. He was one of a small number of Democrats who pushed for 
passage of the North American Free Trade Agreement.
  First elected in 1978 following his service to the City of 
Sacramento, Bob and I were in the same freshman class of Congress as I 
too was elected that year. I got to know, and become very good friends 
with Bob during the 26 years we served in the House together.
  The people in the Sacramento-based 5th district lost a good 
legislator when Bob passed away on January 1, and he will be missed by 
his friends and family.
  It is with a heavy heart that I say good-bye to Bob. My wife Cheryl 
and I would like to express our condolences to his wife, Doris, and the 
entire family, in this time of sorrow and sadness. They will be in our 
prayers.
  Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a sad heart that I rise today to 
honor my colleague, the Honorable Robert T. Matsui. Far before these 
past 4 years where I had the opportunity to work with him in 
Washington, Bob's work effort, faith and determination were a constant 
source of inspiration for me.
  Bob fought in Congress for 28 years on principles that were 
unshakeable for the betterment of all. He took a genuine interest in 
Members' concerns, visited Members' districts--including mine in the 
San Gabriel Valley--and fought hard to ensure equality for the 
underserved and to bring justice to those wronged. Bob was a champion 
for Social Security, fought for all of our children and was determined 
to achieve economic justice.
  I am proud to say that Bob Matsui is among those I consider a close 
personal friend. I send my condolences to his family and I am consoled 
only by knowing that Bob's legacy will live on, and the world will be 
better for it.
  Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to remember my colleague and friend, 
Bob Matsui. Both California and America have lost a respected leader 
and more importantly, a good man who was committed to his constituents, 
his family and his nation.
  Bob was a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly on the 
behalf of his constituents. He always fought for America's children, to 
create economic justice, and to protect Social Security. His work, 
accomplishments, and life are an inspiration to all Americans.
  I have been honored to serve with and know Bob. Even in a partisan. 
and closely divided Congress, Bob always brought civility and intellect 
to policy debates. He was an example for all who seek to advance the 
best public policy.
  I know that his colleagues and his constituents will not soon forget 
Bob--his untimely passing leaves an emptiness in everyone who knew and 
loved him.
  Mr. Speaker, I hope you will join with me in sending our sincerest 
condolences to his family. I hope that his wife, Doris, and his family 
can find peace in this difficult time.
  Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and 
the contributions of my good friend and colleague, the Congressman from 
California, Bob Matsui, who passed away last Saturday.
  During his 26 years of service here in Congress, Mr. Matsui was a 
great leader in the

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House of Representatives, introducing legislation on issues such as 
welfare reform, health care, tax issues and the environment. His 
thorough knowledge of the Social Security system made him a strong 
advocate against proposed reforms that would negatively impact 
America's elderly population.
  Mr. Speaker, I know I speak for many of my colleagues when I say I 
will miss the Congressman from California deeply. When I started here 
over 16 years ago, Mr. Matsui was already well established, and I was 
one of the many beneficiaries of his knowledge and experience.
  In many ways Mr. Matsui brings to mind the late Martin Luther King. 
In the same way that the Reverend King was able to rise above the 
challenges facing him in his fight for civil rights for African-
Americans, Mr. Matsui, who began his life in a Japanese internment camp 
during World War II, never retreated into bitterness and instead 
remained an inspiration and a strong positive force throughout his 
career, representing not just the Asian American community but his 
constituency and our country, with honor and pride.
  Mr. Matsui dedicated his life to serving our country. Due to his 
contributions, the lives of our great country's children, our elderly, 
and our oppressed have been made better. For that, we are supremely 
thankful.
  Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to remember our departed 
friend not with sadness, but with joy in their hearts that we had the 
opportunity to be associated with such a strong, inspiring, devoted 
man.
  Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of 
Congressman Robert Matsui. Bob Matsui was one of those elected 
officials who earned the right to be called a ``statesman.'' He was a 
force for compassion, competence and integrity--as well as a wonderful 
human being whom I was honored to call my friend. I extend my heartfelt 
sympathies to his loving wife and family.
  Mr. Speaker, Bob Matsui embodied America's promise, demonstrating how 
a citizen of humble beginnings could rise to the heights of American 
governance. Bob also reminded us of our country's sins. During the 
Second World War, Bob's family was interned in the Tule Lake internment 
camp. This time of curtailed liberties and rampant xenophobia is one of 
the darker moments of American history.
  Mr. Speaker, internment left an indelible mark on Bob Matsui's 
family. Bob's mother contracted German measles at Tule Lake, and as a 
result, Bob's sister was born blind.
  The experience also deeply affected Bob, inspiring him to use his 
platform in Congress to reclaim the dignity of those wrongly interned. 
Bob worked tirelessly to enact the Japanese American Redress Act, in 
which the government formally apologized for internment and offered 
compensation.
  Mr. Speaker, James Baldwin once said, ``I love America more than any 
other country in the world, and, exactly for this reason, I insist on 
the right to criticize her perpetually.'' Bob Matsui loved America in 
just this spirit. When John F. Kennedy told Americans to ask what they 
could do for their country, Bob pledged to become a public servant. He 
served diligently for 26 years.
  Mr. Speaker, we will miss Bob's leadership as the new Congress wades 
through the murky waters of Social Security policy. Our Democratic 
House Leader, Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, was quite accurate when she 
noted that ``America's seniors have lost their best friend in the 
Congress.'' I would add only that so have this nation's children and 
all of us who seek balanced, progressive solutions to the challenges at 
the center of people's lives.
  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of 
an admirable citizen, respectable public servant and a generous, kind 
man. Congressman Robert Matsui served the people of California and his 
nation in the House of Representatives for 26 years.
  Bob gave our country and Congress years of his knowledge and 
dedication to fighting for civil rights after beginning his life in 
1942 in a detention camp for Japanese-Americans. He embraced his 
heritage as well as the hardships Asian Americans faced and channeled 
it to positive change to make our nation formally apologized for the 
interment of Japanese Americans and provide financial compensation to 
the survivors.
  Bob was a true inspiration: as a Member, he was a vital member of the 
Democratic Party and worked to make his Party stronger but never let 
his dedicated ties refrain him from working with his Republican 
colleagues; as an American, he listened to President Kennedy to give to 
his country a life of service and commitment to making life better for 
all Americans; and as an Asian American, he served as a role model to 
young Asian Americans that the impossible is never that far away and 
that they too can become active in government to serve the American 
people.
  Mr. Speaker, Bob Matsui's loss will leave a large void to this 
chamber. Our prayers and thoughts are with his wife Doris and his son 
Brian.
  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise with great sadness as we honor our 
dear friend and colleague, Congressman Bob Matsui, who passed away this 
New Year's Day. I always say that it is a privilege to serve in this 
body. But for 25 years, it was this institution that was privileged--
privileged to call Bob Matsui one of its Members. He was a 
compassionate man dedicated to his constituents and family, and 
resolute in his ideals.
  Each of us knows the adroit knowledge of Congress Bob possessed--from 
his grasp of tax and trade law intricacies, to his drive for basic 
social justice, to his tireless opposition to those who would weaken 
Social Security's guarantee. He was not only smart--he was also 
principled, and he used both to the fullest throughout his illustrious 
quarter-century in public life.
  I know he would have relished the forthcoming debate to fundamentally 
reform Social Security, to which he surely would have brought the same 
passion and intelligence he took to his efforts to help his party over 
the years. As was the case with all things he put his mind to, win or 
lose, whatever the battle--whether it was welfare reform, Social 
Security or his chairmanship of the Democratic Congressional Campaign 
Committee--the level of discourse was elevated when Bob Matsui added 
his voice to the debate. At a time when the tenor of politics in our 
country has become so abrasive, what Bob Matsui offered was a precious 
commodity indeed.
  On a personal note, I always felt a close bond to Bob, as we were 
both children of immigrant parents--his from Japan, mine from Italy. He 
spoke of how spending the first 5 years of his life in a Japanese 
internment camp haunted him for the rest of his life. But the 
experience unquestionably gave him a lifelong commitment to civil 
rights and social justice. It gave him a genuine empathy for people 
that one could trace from his friendships to his work on issues like 
trade, welfare and retirement security.
  He was, in the truest sense of the word, a patriot--someone for whom 
America meant the promise of a better life for one's family and 
community. As such, Bob Matsui will be sorely missed, but his legacy 
will live on for generations. My thoughts and prayers are with him and 
his family.
  Mr. TANNER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of our colleague, Bob 
Matsui, as we honor his life and his long service to this Congress and 
to our Nation.
  I had the pleasure of serving alongside Bob on the Ways and Means 
Committee since 1996 and knew him to be a statesman of enormous ability 
and integrity, a man of kind and gentle nature, a rare individual with 
whom one could disagree without finding him to be disagreeable. These 
are the most important qualities a public servant in this House of 
Representatives could possess. Bob made an immeasurable contribution to 
the House. His keen intellect and ability to craft bipartisan 
legislation will be missed by me and the entire Congress.
  Our thoughts and prayers are with Bob's family at this difficult 
time. His passing is truly a great loss for our Nation.
  Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, on January 1, 2005 the United States 
Congress lost one of its finest Members with the passing of Bob Matsui. 
Recently re-elected to his 14th term by an overwhelming margin, Bob was 
an outstanding leader, beloved by his colleagues in Congress and his 
constituents alike.
  As the third ranking Democrat on the powerful House Ways and Means 
Committee, and the Ranking Member on the Social Security Subcommittee, 
Bob served as an outspoken champion for the preservation of our social 
security system. In addition, Bob was a member of the Executive Board 
for the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), one of the 
most active caucuses in Congress. The trust and respect that his 
colleagues had for him was demonstrated last Congress, when he was 
elected as Chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.
  As we convene to begin the 109th Congress, it is important that we 
all pause to remember the noble work that Congressman Matsui had 
accomplished during his 26 years in these halls. I would ask that all 
of my colleagues also keep his loved ones in their thoughts, including 
his beloved wife Doris; his son, Brian; his daughter-in-law, Amy; and 
his granddaughter Anna. Bob Matsui was a great man, as well as an 
outstanding leader, and his service to our great Nation will never be 
forgotten.
  Mr. KIND. Mr. Speaker, every now and then you encounter someone in 
public service who is a public servant in every sense of the word, who 
transcends petty partisan politics, who

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brings a depth of character and a depth of knowledge to surpassed by no 
person, someone who loves his country, works hard for the people he 
represents but loves his family even more. That person was Bob Matsui 
who we lost over the weekend.
  Bob was someone I grew to know and love. My first contact with Bob 
was a campaign check he sent to me in my first run for Congress in 
1996. I had never met him before then but he must of saw something in 
me that motivated him to help me out a little during my first campaign 
when a lot of other people didn't think I could win.
  And when I came to Congress, I quickly got to know Bob and appreciate 
him. He was someone who made everyone feel special. He would solicit 
your opinions on the issue before us, even though his depth on the 
issues like tax policy, trade, social security and medicare, surpassed 
anything anyone else had. He cared for this institution and the process 
of democracy and he exuded boundless optimism about the future of our 
great country even though his first few months as a citizen of this 
country was spent in an internment camp in California shortly after the 
Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. He later led the effort in Congress to 
right that gross injustice by having our government apologize for that 
action.
  In short, Bob Matsui was someone I respected, looked up to and tried 
to emulate here in Congress. You can't replace a Bob Matsui; he was 
rare and never fully appreciated to the extent he deserved. But we all 
can learn from Bob Matsui and take his legacy of compassion, justice 
and fairness and make it our legacy to the next generation.
  To his wife Doris, son, Brian, daughter-in-law, Amy, and 
granddaughter, Anna, may you surround yourself with family, friends and 
loved-ones during this difficult time and find comfort and 
understanding. Perhaps one day Anna will be old enough to read these 
testimonials to her grandfather and better appreciate how special he 
truly was. Please know that Bob was loved by many and will be missed by 
all.
  May God bless him and keep in his company.
  Ms. WATERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay my respects to one of 
the giants of the House of Representatives, Congressman Bob Matsui. Mr. 
Speaker, I can not tell you how shocked and saddened I was when I heard 
the news of Congressman's Matsui's passing. The constituents of the 5th 
Congressional District of California, the Democratic Party and our 
nation have suffered an enormous loss.
  I had the honor and privilege of serving with Congressman Matsui 
since I was elected to Congress in 1990. I was always impressed with 
Bob's knowledge, dedication and concern about the issues that he held 
close: healthcare for those who need it--especially for children, tax 
policy, fiscal responsibility and trade; as well as the issues that 
were important to his District: flood control, transportation, housing, 
and environmental preservation. His knowledge and passion on these and 
many other issues will be missed dearly.
  Even on the rare occasion when we differed on an issue, such as 
trade, Congressman Matsui presented his positions fairly and without 
rancor. He approached issues with an open mind and demonstrated a great 
ability to reach across the aisle. He had opponents, but no enemies.
  Congressman Matsui served the people of Sacramento for 26 years. 
While Bob Matsui was a valued member of the Democratic Party, he never 
forgot that his primary responsibility was to all of the people of 
California's 5th Congressional District, regardless of party 
affiliation. Bob always did what he thought was best for his 
constituents and for the country. He worked tirelessly for them in 
Congress and they have lost a valuable advocate.
  Bob Matsui had the respect and confidence of his peers. Time and 
again, Democrats elected him to leadership posts and he used these 
positions to be a capable and articulate spokesman for the Democratic 
Party. There is perhaps no other issue in which Congressman Matsui 
proved to be more valuable--or will be missed more--than Social 
Security. His knowledge was second to none and as Congress debates the 
future of this vital program, we will miss his wise counsel about the 
importance of preserving Social Security as we know it for future 
generations.
  Congressman Matsui's experiences as a Japanese-American who was 
detained in an internment camp during World War II gave him a special 
sensitivity to the importance of preserving civil rights and civil 
liberties. His legislative work securing relief for those who were 
wrongfully held during World War II was a historic achievement and a 
fitting tribute to this great and good man.
  Over the past several days, we have heard dozens of tributes honoring 
Congressman Matsui. The words that were most often used in these 
accolades to describe Bob Matsui were ``integrity,'' ``dignity'' and 
``ability.'' For those that knew him, these words were only part of 
what made Bob Matsui a terrific person, a dear friend and valuable 
Member of Congress.
  Mr. Speaker, it is amazing to think that public service was not Bob 
Matsui's first passion; architecture was. We are tremendously fortunate 
that Congressman Matsui happened to read the biography of Clarence 
Darrow, which he always credited for inspiring him to enter law and 
eventually politics. California and, indeed the nation, has benefited 
from Congressman Matsui's service and we thank him and his family for 
sharing him with us.
  Congressman Matsui will be sorely missed. My prayers are with his 
wife Doris, his son, Brian, his daughter-in-law, Amy and granddaughter 
Anna, and his many friends and family. God bless you, Congressman 
Matsui. We will never forget you.
  Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, Bob Matsui was a dear friend. His long and 
distinguished public service on behalf of the people of California and 
all Americans was a tremendous benefit to his State and our Nation.
  As a Member of Congress, he was a respected leader, an effective 
lawmaker, and a tireless leader of his party. With a major debate on 
Social Security looming, we will sorely miss his unparalleled expertise 
and foresight on that issue.
  Most of all--in that fight and in many to come--we will miss his 
compassion and his dedication to serving the most needy among us.
  Throughout his career, Bob Matsui was a champion of the vulnerable, 
leading the fight for civil rights. He said that he was inspired to go 
to law school by Clarence Darrow and to go into politics by John F. 
Kennedy. And he never stopped advancing those ideals.
  Imprisoned as a young child in the Japanese-American internment camps 
of World War II, he authored the landmark bill that provided 
restitution to Japanese Americans held in those camps and, more 
important, tendered an official apology on behalf of the government.
  Never one to shirk the tough jobs, he worked over decades on the 
thankless but essential task of improving flood protection for the 
Sacramento region, and recently reached an historic agreement on that 
critical issue.
  Bob Matsui was a thoughtful and prescient legislator. An early 
advocate of free trade, in the early 90s, he provided critical 
assistance to President Clinton in getting NAFTA through the House--
despite opposition from labor groups that traditionally support 
Democrats. In 2000, he played a key role in obtaining permanent 
normalized trade relations with China, again at Clinton's behest. And 
he was a strong backer of giving the President fast track trade 
authority. At the same time, he was increasingly concerned over how 
little was being done to help Americans who had lost jobs.
  Even those who fought the hardest with Bob over policy issues admired 
his intelligence and dedication and enjoyed his humor and warmth. He 
was a truly kind person and we will all miss his friendship.
  My thoughts and prayers are with Bob Matsui's family.
  May he rest in peace.
  Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of 
H. Res. 11 expressing profound sorrow on the occasion of the death of 
the Honorable Robert T. Matsui.
  I am saddened by the loss of a great man and wonderful colleague in 
Bob Matsui. He was a person dedicated to others, not just in his 
remarkable public service, but also in his warm and embracing 
character. His passing is a loss to the people of his district, 
California, and all Americans who benefited from his wisdom in Congress 
for the past 26 years.
  Most of all, my heart goes out to his family. His wife, Doris, his 
son, Brian, his daughter-in-law, Amy, and, of course, his 
granddaughter, Anna, were the most important things in the world to 
him, and I only hope that their grief can be tempered by the knowledge 
of his constant and unwavering love for them.
  While it will be difficult for Californians, and all of Bob's 
colleagues in Washington to accept this tragic loss, I think we owe it 
to him to remember all of the positive things that Bob stood for. He 
was the first Japanese-American elected to the Sacramento City Council 
and one of the first Japanese-Americans to serve in the U.S. Congress.
  These are remarkable feats for any American, but are simply 
astounding coming from Bob Matsui, who was forced into an internment 
camp, along with his family, when he was only six months old.
  But Bob would never hold a grudge against the country that had done 
him and so many other Japanese-Americans wrong. He was too great a man, 
and he had too big a heart. He

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continued to strive for what was right for decades, using his energy to 
improve those systems that so many Americans rely on. He was as 
committed to Social Security and protecting older Americans as he was 
to upholding the ideals and principles of the Democratic Party, 
creating a strong future for the next generations.
  Bob Matsui was a terrific mentor and a terrific friend to me. While 
our time together was cut too short, he provided an excellent role 
model of how to stay true to your beliefs even in the face of 
adversity. Today I join all Californians and Americans in mourning 
Congressman Robert Matsui. Serving with him in this body will always be 
one of the great honors of my career.
  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance 
of my time.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Burgess). Without objection, the 
previous question is ordered on the resolution.
  There was no objection.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the resolution.
  The resolution was agreed to.
  A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

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