    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2001, Book II)]
    [August 22, 2001]
    [Page 1009]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 1009]]

    Statement on Senator Jesse Helms' Decision Not
    To Seek Reelection
    August 22, 2001

        The Senate is losing an institution with the decision of Jesse Helms
    to retire after three decades of distinguished public service. Senator
    Helms went to Washington but never became a part of Washington. He has
    always remained true to his conservative principles and to the people of
    North Carolina who elected him five times. Senator Helms is a true
    gentleman, known for treating his colleagues with the utmost respect and
    courtesy, regardless of party or policy differences.
        As chairman and ranking Republican of the Foreign Relations
    Committee, Senator Helms has been a tireless defender of our Nation's
    freedom and a champion of democracy abroad. When Senator Helms retires,
    the Senate will have lost a respected leader, but I have no doubt we
    will continue to seek his counsel as a senior statesman.
        Laura and I extend our best wishes to Jesse, his wife, Dot, and the entire Helms family.