[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 1]
[Senate]
[Page 532]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


                      HONORING SENATOR TRENT LOTT

  Mr. LUGAR. I join my Senate colleagues in expressing our confidence 
that many wonderful adventures lie before our friend, Trent Lott, and 
his family, even as we are saddened by his plans to leave the Senate.
  Tributes to Trent will include praise of his extraordinary leadership 
abilities, his thoughtfulness for others, his physical strength and 
endurance during long sessions of work, his even temper and good humor, 
and even his vocal performance talents.
  But Senate ``insiders'' will usually turn to the concept of ``Trent 
the Vote-Counter'' in an attempt to identify how and why our friend 
succeeded on so many occasions while many colleagues did not fare so 
well. I would not suggest for a moment that Trent lacked any counting 
ability, but I would suggest that a search for his crystal ball misses 
a major point. Trent was successful because he convinced people that 
they should support him and demonstrate that support by voting for him.
  Long before he announced his interest in elective office or commenced 
``herding cats'' on the House or Senate floors, Trent studied the 
Congress with the benefit of his able mentors, and he learned the 
fundamentals of how they had gained election in his home State of 
Mississippi. Trent learned that long before any vote-counting 
commenced, the fundamental task was to win hearts, minds, and trust of 
individual voters, and that requires evaluation of interests, the best 
arguments delivered in the most appropriate language with the best 
selection of time and place, and the steady development of trust.
  We watched Trent win elections in Mississippi, from afar, but we have 
witnessed his House and Senate leadership races up close. He faced 
strong and able opposition. He was a graceful winner. He fulfilled all 
expectations and promises, and we know he will continue to do so.
  Trent, I thank you for loyal friendship, personal encouragement, and 
the times we have enjoyed great experiences, together. I pray for your 
continuing good health and vitality which will make possible the 
enjoyment of your loving family and your service to others.

                          ____________________