[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 36, Number 3 (Monday, January 24, 2000)]
[Page 122]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on Senator Bob Kerrey's Decision Not To Seek Reelection

January 20, 2000

    I have said before of Senator Bob Kerrey that he is always willing 
to be on the cutting edge of change. But the change he announces today 
is a bittersweet one for his family, his colleagues in the United States 
Senate, and his constituents in Nebraska.
    Our Government and Nation are better because of Bob Kerrey's public 
service. I first got to know him when we served as Governors in the 
1980's, when we shared a passion for education reform, farm problems, 
and deficit reduction.
    In the Senate, Bob Kerrey provided pivotal leadership to turn our 
economy around by getting rid of the deficit. His creativity, political 
courage, and farsightedness have kept him at the forefront of the fight 
for educational excellence, entitlement and tax reform, a stronger 
military, and a modern intelligence capability. His leadership of the 
Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee and recruitment of new blood 
and funds helped shape a party that is firmly focused on the future and 
prepared to do well in this year's elections.
    As Senator, Governor, Medal of Honor recipient, Bob Kerrey served 
our Nation above and beyond the call of duty. ``If I added to their 
pride of America, I am happy,'' said Carl Sandburg. By that measure, 
Senator Kerrey should be happy, indeed. Hillary and I wish him well as 
he embarks on a new chapter in his remarkable life.