Webb: "Warner will Remain a Strong Voice in the Senate and in Virginia in the Years to Come"

August 31, 2007 -- Washington, DC — Senator Jim Webb today responded to Senator Warner’s decision to retire from the U.S. Senate:

“John Warner’s decision to retire from the Senate will cause this body to lose one of the great voices on behalf of our men and women in uniform and also a strong advocate for the people of Virginia. At a time when our political climate is as partisan and divisive as ever, John Warner embodies bipartisanship, courtesy and generosity. He is the quintessential Virginia gentleman.

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“Senator Warner is skilled at reaching across the aisle to forge consensus when the people of Virginia and this country are looking for leadership. He maintains an independence and clarity of thought that are all too rare in Washington.

“Thirty five years ago, I was honored to serve on his staff in the Pentagon during my last year in the Marine Corps. We both served our country as Marines—John served in Korea; I served in Vietnam. We both served as Secretary of the Navy. And, today, we both hold seats in the U.S. Senate representing the people of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

“While today is a bittersweet announcement for Virginia, the nation and the Senate, it bears emphasis that Senator Warner still has more than a year in office. During that time, he will continue to play a crucial role in formulating a more rational policy in Iraq. Just last week, we saw his leadership and independence on display once more. The President would do well to listen to John Warner during his last year in office.”

Source: Senator Jim Webb