Speech #980278598

KENT has served his constituents and his State with distinction. and I am proud to consider him a friend of long standing. It was my great privilege to serve with KENT during his 4 years in the Texas Senate. when on numerous occasions we joined in efforts to preserve the family farm and ranch and promote the wellbeing of the most productive members of our society. our agricultural producers. in the face of all manner of adversity. KENT was. and is. an outstanding authority on some of the most vital issues affecting Texas and Texanswater rights. illegal immigration. oil and gas production. and national defenseand he has spoken brilliantly and effectively across the State and here in Congress. on behalf of his district. his State and his Nation. I have no doubt that his exemplary record of service and accomplishment is merely entering a new phase as he leaves the Congress. and I look forward with enthusiastic anticipation to the future achievements of KENT HANCE.*