I stand here today looking a little worse for wear, I’m sure. I’m have a refreshed appreciation for protocols and customs of this body and for the other 99 privileged souls who have been elected to this Senate. I’ve been a member of the United States Senate for 30 years.I had another long if not as long career before I arrived here. Another profession that was profoundly rewarding and which I had experiences and friendships that I revere. But make no mistake, my service here is the most important job I’ve had in my life.

I’m so grateful, so grateful to the people of Arizona for the privilege, for the honor of serving here and the opportunities it gives me to play a small role in the history of the country that I love. I’ve known and admired men and women in the senate who played much more than a small role in our history. True statesman, giants of American politics. They come from both parties and from various backgrounds.