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Floor Speech
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Ms. STABENOW. Madam President, I rise today to pay tribute to someone I was honored to work alongside, and I know that many other Members on both sides of the aisle feel the same way.
Herb Kohl wasn't the most outgoing Senator. Some people might have called him quiet or even shy. But he was never quiet about fighting for the people of Wisconsin. And he was never shy about standing up for the things he believed in. He was absolutely passionate about protecting our Great Lakes, our land, and the people in Wisconsin and across the country who depend on them for their livelihoods. Wisconsin's dairy farmers and rural communities had no greater champion, and they are so fortunate that Senator Baldwin has carried on Senator Kohl's good work.
He was also a champion for American families and for ensuring that they have access to fresh, healthy food. As chairman of the Agriculture Appropriations panel, he fought to expand nutrition programs for children and to fund the WIC Program, which helps make sure American moms and babies have the food they need to thrive. And as chairman of the Special Committee on Aging, he was laser-focused on the needs of older Americans, including through improving the quality and safety of nursing homes.
Of course, we all know what a huge sports fan he was as the longtime owner of the Milwaukee Bucks and a member of the team that brought the Brewers to Wisconsin. It was wonderful that he was able to watch his beloved Bucks win the NBA title in 2021, and he even rode in the championship parade.
Perhaps he will be most remembered for his generosity. His Herb Kohl Educational Foundation has provided more than $34 million to support Wisconsin schools, teachers, and students since 1990. And he made a lasting impact at his alma mater, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where the Kohl Center Arena and the Herb Kohl Public Service Research Competition still carry his name.
But beyond the sports teams and beyond his legislative legacy, Senator Kohl was kind. He was humble. He believed in treating everyone with respect. He knew how fortunate he was, and he spent his life ensuring that as many other people as possible could share in his good fortune. I firmly believe that the Senate--and our country--would be a kinder, better place if more of us would follow his lead. Senator Kohl was a statesman, and he was my friend. I am grateful for the time we worked together in the Senate.
I want to offer his family, friends, and the entire State of Wisconsin my deepest condolences.
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