Hoeven Delivers George Washington's Farewell Address

Press Release

Senator John Hoeven today delivered President George Washington's 1796 Farewell Address on the floor of the U.S. Senate to honor the nation's first president. Hoeven was selected to read the Address in the annual bipartisan Senate tradition, dating back more than 150 years.

"As the Father of our Country, the good counsel of George Washington continues to guide and inspire our great nation today," said Hoeven. "His words, while penned almost 220 years ago, remind us of the rich heritage our nation is founded upon and the leaders that sacrificed so much to give us freedom. Washington was a leader in every sense of the word -- he led soldiers, patriots and politicians -- and always with humility and courage. After two terms in office, he declined the appeals of supporters to serve a third term, and in so doing, set a precedent for the democratic transfer of power for future generations. It is an honor and a privilege to read the words of our first president today to honor George Washington's lasting legacy."

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