[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 34, Number 51 (Monday, December 21, 1998)]
[Page 2472]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Death of Lawton Chiles

December 12, 1998

    Hillary and I were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Governor 
Lawton Chiles. Lawton Chiles was a close friend of mine for many years. 
He served the people of Florida as an elected official for over 40 
years, always putting the interests of ordinary people first with his 
unique political style. As a leader, he has been an indefatigable 
champion of Florida's children and families and a steadfast protector of 
the environment. He displayed courage time and time again, most recently 
challenging the Nation's top cigarette makers and emerging victorious.
    Lawton was a statesman, a role model, and one of the most successful 
and respected public officials in the later half of the 20th century. He 
set a benchmark for how public servants will be judged and, I believe, 
created a legacy that will endure for generations.
    Lawton never forgot the thousands of ordinary citizens he met, as he 
walked the highways and backroads of his State, whom he served so well. 
And they will never forget him.