[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 7]
[Senate]
[Page 9730]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO RYAN McKEON

  Mr. LEE. Mr. President, Ryan McKeon has served as my chief advisor on 
economic policy for the past several years and has been an 
indispensable member of my staff. The old saying, ``still water runs 
deep,'' is a good metaphor for Ryan. Many on Capitol Hill race about 
trying to call attention to themselves or create a torrent of activity 
to prove how smart or important they are. Ryan, on the other hand, has 
a style that is indicative of the depth of his substance. He is 
concerned with properly informing, not impressing, and is less 
interested in entertaining than he is in engaging in deeper dialogue on 
issues that matter.
  I have trusted Ryan's wisdom and keen insight on a wide range of 
policy issues and have always had complete confidence in his thorough 
briefings and recommendations. He has been the driving force behind an 
expanding and more meaningful economic policy reach from my office.
  Ryan is very perceptive. His understanding of core disciplines, 
principles, and policies, as well as the nuances and subtleties of his 
issue areas, has been priceless. Ryan is aware of not only the 
principle and policy ramifications of congressional business but the 
likely results and down-stream effect of the decisions made. Ryan's 
stillness allows him to present information in a concise, clear manner 
that informs me of vital data and impact points while filtering out the 
noise and chatter typical of Washington, DC, debate.
  Everyone in my office knows they can approach Ryan to have him run 
the numbers on any piece of legislation. He understands the big picture 
and regularly worked in tandem with our communications team to ensure 
our messaging was congruent with what we had introduced legislatively. 
Ryan has worked well with other offices, as well as with academics and 
highly specialized policy experts outside of my office. While so much 
of Ryan's work is centered in serious issues and tough topics, he also 
knows the value of some well placed humor, a wry comment, and a little 
levity.
  Ryan is committed to adding value and making a difference. I greatly 
appreciate what he has done for me, for the people of Utah, and for our 
nation. There is a confidence that comes of stillness, a strength that 
comes from serenity, and quiet determination that comes from depth. 
Ryan McKeon runs deep, and I am confident his influence will continue 
to ripple and roll on in the years ahead.

                          ____________________