Statements
Statement from Florida Democratic Chair Manny Diaz Congratulating Former Florida Governor and United States Senator Bob Graham on his 85th Birthday
In recognition of former Governor and Senator Bob Graham’s birthday, and his decades of outstanding service to our state, Florida Democratic Party Chair Manny Diaz issued the following statement:
“Bob Graham’s legacy of service to Florida is unrivaled in our state’s history. He began his career as a state legislator, won the governorship in 1978 and, after serving two terms in the governor’s mansion, was elected Senator and represented the State of Florida in Washington D.C. for 18 years. One of the crowning accomplishments in his truly stellar political career was being named Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence during his last term in the upper chamber.
“Even after retiring from elected office he continued to serve our state and our nation. President Barack Obama appointed him to serve as Co-Chair of the National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling. He also later served as Commissioner on the Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission and as the Chairman of the Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism.
“A full accounting of his accomplishments as a public servant could fill many books, but that would only begin to document his impact over the years. Beyond his legendary skills as a politician, Bob Graham has been loved and admired by millions for his unique and extraordinary personal qualities: intelligence, equanimity, warmth, empathy, industry and decency. For Senator Graham, every single day was a “workday” for the people of Florida. Florida is lucky and proud to have him as a native son.
“It is an honor for me personally and as Chairman of the Democratic Party of Florida to congratulate Bob Graham on his 85th birthday, and wish him, his wife, Adele, and the entire Graham family many more healthy and happy years together.
“God Bless You Senator Graham.”