WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today issued the following statement after Senator Frank Lautenberg announced that he would retire at the end of this Congress.

“Frank is a titan in the Senate.  He knows the ins and outs of Congress, and understands how to get things done – often through sheer perseverance and determination, but almost always with a smile.

“Frank built his career from the bottom up and has served this country in many different ways.  He fought to defend our nation during World War II, he created a successful business and became its CEO, and he has served in the Senate for almost three decades.  This chamber and the state of New Jersey were lucky to have him return after his initial retirement announcement.  He is a true advocate for the needs of New Jerseyans.

“I’ve also had the opportunity to get to know Frank from our work together on the Commerce Committee.  He has a unique and expert knowledge of surface transportation issues and how they impact states and communities.  The Committee is fortunate to have him lead the Subcommittee that deals with these issues.

“It has been an honor to work with Frank since I joined the Senate, and I sincerely look forward to working with him over the next two years.”

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