03.05.18

Statement Of Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) On The Retirement Of Chairman Thad Cochran (R-Miss.)

Marcelle and I count Thad among our dearest friends, and his leadership on the Appropriations Committee and in the Senate will be sorely missed.  Despite being on opposite ends of the political spectrum, over the years Thad and I crossed the aisle to work hand-in-hand for the American people.  Together, we championed the Farm-To-School Act.  We worked together to pass the FY17 Omnibus, and he has been a steadfast partner as we moved through the FY18 appropriations process.  Throughout all of this time, from our time working together on the Agriculture Committee to the Appropriations Committee, I knew I could trust Thad because he is a man of his word.

The Senate needs more devoted public servants like Thad Cochran, and I am sad to see my dear friend leave. 

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