DNC and DFA statements on Jeffords today.

[madfloridian]

Howard Dean and Jim Jeffords have been good friends, and DFA is based in Vermont. A lot of the DFA were present for that announcement today.

Howard Dean's statement via the DNC on Jeffords.
http://www.democrats.org/news/200504200001.html

Washington, DC – "Democratic National Committee Chairman, Governor Howard Dean, issued the following statement regarding the retirement of Vermont Senator Jim Jeffords:

"People all across America owe my good friend Jim Jeffords a debt of gratitude for dedicating his life to public service. An extraordinary man of great integrity, Jim's career exemplifies the very best in public life. From defending the environment and education, to his staunch support for the arts, to advocating for Americans with disabilities, Jim has distinguished himself as a courageous public servant.

"For more than 30 years, Jim has fought to do the right thing, standing against extremism. His work ethic, patriotism and commitment to serving the people of Vermont have made him a model to all of us who know him and have had the honor to work with him."

http://www.blogforamerica.com/archives/006237.html

Sen. Jeffords' Retirement
"The DFA staff was saddened to hear the announcement today that Senator James Jeffords will not seek re-election in 2006. Although not all of us at HQ are Vermonters, we all have a great deal of respect for Senator Jeffords."

"While we are sorry he will no longer be representing Vermont in the Senate, we also want to celebrate his long and distinguished career as Vermont's Attorney General, U.S. Congressman, and Senator. For decades, Jeffords has faithfully represented the people of Vermont effectively, in a down-to-earth manner and without regard to partisanship."

"Many of the DFA staff, volunteers, and interns were in attendance at Jeffords' announcement in Burlington this afternoon, and there were at least a few teary eyes in the room. Jeffords spoke of his great satisfaction with the opportunity to solve problems and help people as well as his deep gratitude to the people of Vermont for their support and trust. He said he was looking forward to spending more time in Vermont with his family."

[madfloridian]

1. Kick for a good man.

Kind of sad his wife is ill, and he is having problems as well.

[Rose Siding]

2. I admire Senator Jeffords a great deal

The bushies screwed him over his beloved environmental legislation and he wouldn't take it laying down.

All the best to him and his wife.