Politics

On the Passing of Chairman Tom Lantos

By Speaker Pelosi

The passing of Tom Lantos is a profound loss for the Congress and for the nation and a terrible loss for me personally.

As the only Holocaust survivor ever elected to Congress, Tom Lantos devoted his life to shining a bright light on dark corners of oppression. He used his chairmanship of the Foreign Affairs Committee to empower the powerless and give voice to the voiceless throughout the world. Having lived through the worst evil known to mankind, Tom Lantos translated the experience into a lifetime commitment to the fight against anti-Semitism, Holocaust education, and a commitment to the state of Israel.

Here at home, Tom Lantos championed working families and was a strong leader in protecting our planet for the future. Though his leadership was felt around the world, he always remained a fierce advocate for his constituents in San Francisco and the entire 12th District.

Because Tom lost his family in the Holocaust, his wife, Annette, his two daughters, Annette and Katrina, his grandchildren, and his great-grandchildren were the center of his universe. All who knew Tom knew how devoted he was to his family and to Annette, whom he adored. They worked as a team, bringing great intellect, experience and compassion to their outstanding work in public service.

My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Lantos family. I hope it is a comfort that so many people throughout the world mourn their loss and are praying for them at this sad time.

Full post as published by The Gavel on February 11, 2008 (boomark / email).