Senator Exon's Retirement Speech
March 17th, 1995 - Washington D.C.
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Today is a sentimental journey for the Exon Family. A little over 25 years ago, on November 25th 1969, we made this same trek across Nebraska announcing my first bid for public office as a candidate for governor.
The wonderful people of Nebraska responded positively then and likewise in four succeeding statewide elections, including a second term as governor and three more for the honor of serving this state in the U.S. Senate.
As it turns out, I have served this state as its governor longer than anyone previously. Coupled with the three senate terms and three years duty in World War II this adds up to well over a quarter of a century in public service. That must be some kind of record, especially for a democrat in Nebraska.
After due consideration and deliberations I have decided that I will retire from elective office at the conclusion of my current term.
This has not been a particularly easy decision for a couple of reasons. First, the ‘old fire horse’ within me wanted to answer the bell for another race. Secondly, because of the overwhelming out-pouring of volunteered support from democrats, republicans and independents alike, enthusiastic that I serve again. I hope no one thinks I am letting them down, and can at least appreciate my decision to make this announcement early in fairness to any who may aspire to succeed me.
I have very much enjoyed serving the people of Nebraska for over half of my adult life. And I hope I will be perceived as having done so with dignity, diligence, and integrity, worthy of the trust and confidence the people placed in me.
I have listened to their recommendations then reached my best judgment. To them I say, without equivocation or mental reservation, that I never reached a decision that I did not believe to be in the best interest of Nebraska and the United States of America. I may not always have been right, but I was convinced that I was. That’s about all I believe Nebraskans ever expected of me.
During these years I had the honor of serving with six presidents. Each knew I was an independent political personality from whom they could get straight answers that reflected Nebraskans’ common sense values. All of them respected my dedication and leadership in the key area of protecting America’s national security. During those years the international security map of the world changed dramatically for the better. We won!
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