[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 29, Number 28 (Monday, July 19, 1993)]
[Page 1339]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Death of Patrick Lippert

 July 14, 1993

    I am deeply saddened by the untimely death of one of America's 
brightest young leaders, Patrick Lippert. An activist for many years, 
most recently Patrick launched Rock the Vote, an organization that 
reinvigorated an entire generation's interest in our democratic process 
by rallying them to vote in the past election, many for the first time. 
Rock the Vote will continue to serve as a political forum for countless 
new generations of young Americans to come, thanks in large part to 
Patrick.
    Many remarkable Americans have accomplished far less than Patrick 
did in his 35 years. As executive director of Rock the Vote, he helped 
to conceive of and then to pass the motor voter bill, which will make 
registering to vote much easier for millions of Americans. I was honored 
to have Patrick at my side 6 weeks ago as I signed the bill into law.
    Patrick's friends knew him as a tireless and selfless fighter for 
the rights of people he never even knew. His concern for people and for 
his country was profound. He will be sorely missed by all of us who were 
inspired by his relentless fight for change. His passing should serve as 
a reminder that we must rededicate ourselves to the ideals he stood for.