Washington, D.C. – Rep. Kristi Noem today spoke on the House floor to honor the memory of former South Dakota Congressman and Senator Jim Abdnor, who passed away yesterday at the age of 89.
Transcript:
“Thank you Madame Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of former South Dakota Congressman and U.S. Senator Jim Abdnor, who passed away yesterday at the age of 89.
“Jim Abdnor dedicated his life to serving the State of South Dakota and our country.
“In whatever capacity he was serving in – as Lieutenant Governor, as Congressman, U.S. Senator, even Administrator of the United States Small Business Administration – Jim was a man that constantly put others first.
“South Dakotans who knew him remember Jim as an incredibly decent man who worked tirelessly for the state that he loved. In my personal interactions with Jim, I was always impressed by what a man of humility and integrity that he was.
“A born and raised South Dakotan, he left a legacy of hard work, commitment and selfless sacrifice that every resident of the Rushmore State can be proud of.
“I ask that South Dakotans, and all those who knew him personally, or of his legacy to keep his family and loved ones in their thoughts and prayers.
“With that, I yield back.”