Pelosi Statement on the Retirement of Congressman Jim Langevin

Statement

Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement after Congressman Jim Langevin of Rhode Island announced that he will retire at the end of his term:

"Congressman Jim Langevin has brought to our Caucus and the Congress a fierce fighting spirit during his more than two decades in the House. With extraordinary courage and resilience in the face of adversity, Congressman Langevin blazed new trails as the first quadriplegic ever elected to Congress. By helping us enact the ADA Amendments Act to strengthen the landmark law's vital protections, he has been a force for Americans with disabilities. It was a moment of great pride and progress for our nation when he became the first wheelchair user to serve as Speaker Pro Tempore, presiding over the House as we celebrated twenty years of the ADA. This was only possible because of his inspiration and determination.

"Congressman Langevin has offered an unrelenting voice on issues of national security. As a senior member of the Armed Services Committee and the Intelligence Committee, he has helped deliver innovative new technologies for our Servicemembers so that they are best prepared to defend our nation. As Chair of the Cyber, Innovative Technologies and Information Systems Subcommittee, he has led the charge to strengthen and secure our nation against cyber threats -- including by authoring legislation to create the essential office of National Cyber Director.

"Congress and the Country are deeply grateful for his devoted service and look forward to benefiting from his committed leadership through the end of his term. On behalf of the House, we wish him all the best in his future endeavors."

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