Senator Exon's Retirement Speech

March 17th, 1995 - Washington D.C.

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Today no nation or combination of nations poses a serious military threat to our mainland.  But we dare not take anything for granted.  We do have legitimate, far-reaching obligations around the globe.  Isolationism is again rearing its dangerous head.  We are and must remain a world power for obvious reasons.  I see no World War III if we remain ever vigilant.  And yes, it’s going to cost money.  Peace always does, but war costs more in lives and dollars.  Only those who have experienced war fully understand.  Hear Us! 

During my years in public service Nebraska has done well and has a bright and promising future.  But there clearly are some immediate problems.  The unwarranted all-out attack on agriculture is serious since it is led by the new Chairman of the Agriculture Committee.  In the weeks ahead we are determined to turn this ill-advised effort back.  There is also much more to do in the 21 months that remain, and I will continue to press my busy schedule unabated. 

All during these years I have been proud of the carefully selected staff we have assembled, and many have essentially been there since the beginning.  We have called on them to work with me to assist thousands of Nebraskans in every imaginable area.  I thank them for their devotion, dedication and professionalism.  All have been invited to remain.  Suffice to say, no elected official is better than the people around them.

 In recent years Nebraska has emerged as a true two-party state.  This was originated by the late Governor Ralph Brooks, the ever faithful Governor Frank Morrison and the dedication of a great many individuals.  This was made possible by the customary open-mindedness of Nebraskans.  This happening will serve Nebraska well in the new future just ahead in the 21^st century.  A viable two-party system is the best assurance for the proper functioning of our form of government.

 My concerns?  The ever increasing vicious polarization of the electorate, the "us against them" mentality.  This has all but swept aside the former preponderance of reasonable discussions of the pros and cons of the many legitimate issues.  The traditional art of workable compromises for the ultimate good of all.  The essence of democracy, has demonstrably eroded.  The hate level fed by attack ads has unfortunately become the measurement of a successful campaign.  As long as money and plenty of it continues to pour in, absent campaign spending limits, the deterioration will continue.

 My regrets?  None but two.  First, the continuing concern that still can be turned around in the months immediately ahead with regard to the deficit.  We lost the balanced budget amendment, but we shall persevere.

 The other is one that I can correct.  This is for the time and attention I have taken from my wonderful and understanding family.  From Pat, the great former first lady of Nebraska.  From Steve, Pam and Candy, our three children, and their spouses and the eight delightful Nebraska-born grandchildren they and the good lord provided us with.  In the years ahead I will dwell at making up to them for the many times my public responsibilities required sacrifices of my family obligations.

 We thought it was important to take this sentimental journey again to tell all of our decision, just as we did at the beginning.  Sentimental journeys never go on forever, nor should they.  Thank you, Nebraskans.  You are indeed the greatest.  God Bless.

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