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Statement on Retirement of Senator Lautenberg

February 14, 2013

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. released the following statement after Senator Frank Lautenberg announced he would not seek re-election:

“Senator Frank Lautenberg has been an incredible public servant to the people and families of New Jersey, and he will be sorely missed in Congress. However, with his retirement announcement, Senator Lautenberg has made it clear that this is not the end, but the beginning of a relentless two year fiery fight on Capitol Hill to finish the work he has started in protecting the health, safety, and economic security of the people across the state of New Jersey.
“Senator Lautenberg is an inspiration as a World War II veteran and an incredibly successful businessman and philanthropist, but his 30-year career in public service is truly a model for me and everyone who seeks public office. Throughout his career Senator Lautenberg has been a champion of gun safety laws, and I am confident he will remain a major player in passing legislation that will prevent guns from getting into the wrong hands and further terrorizing our streets and communities. As a leader in environmental protection, Senator Lautenberg championed causes that keep our air and water clear, and he’s made it clear he will continue the fight to keep New Jersey’s children safe from toxic chemicals. And the Senator’s unparalleled legacy of infrastructure development and transportation safety has forever changed the landscape of New Jersey’s transit systems.
“Although I am saddened by the news that Senator Lautenberg will not seek re-election, I am looking forward to working with him over the next two years to create jobs, improve health and safety standards, and pass meaningful gun safety reform for the people and families of New Jersey.”
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