In Memory of Senator Wendell Ford

Floor Speech

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Mr. GUTHRIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of Wendell Hampton Ford. A dedicated public servant, Senator Ford held many roles in state and federal politics, including Governor of the Commonwealth and U.S. Senator.

A Daviess County native, Senator Ford always held his hometown close to his heart. It was his starting point in government and his final resting place. Holding elected office for more than three decades, Senator Ford is the only Kentuckian to seek and win election to consecutive terms as lieutenant governor, governor and U.S. senator.

Throughout his long tenure in state and federal government, Senator Ford was known and will be remembered for being an advocate for his fellow Kentuckians. A friend of the farmers, Senator Ford has been recognized for his work on agricultural issues, particularly tobacco. Senator Ford understood the vital role tobacco played--and still plays--in Kentucky's economy.

In tackling these big issues, Senator Ford quickly rose through the ranks. He was elected the whip of his party in 1990, a position he held until he left the U.S. Senate. He once described himself to the New York Times as ``being a workhorse and not a show horse.'' It's that same attitude that led him to be a behind-the-scenes dealmaker, who strived to achieve solutions to our policy woes.

That desire to better his community and country did not stop when Senator Ford left public service. After serving four terms in the U.S. Senate, Senator Ford created the Wendell H. Ford Government Education Center, located in Owensboro, KY. Designed to educate young people about civics and public policy, Senator Ford continued teaching those lessons until the end of his life. It is a fantastic facility with a wonderful mission, and the center is just one of the many lasting legacies his leadership has left on the region.

I join with Kentucky's Second District in sending prayers to Senator Ford's family. We will miss him and are grateful for his service to the Commonwealth and our nation.

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