Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell delivered a eulogy for former Sen. Johnny Isakson, casting the late statesman as a source of unity in a time of great division.
The funeral held in Atlanta drew other prominent politicians, including Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, as anniversary events for the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot took place in Washington, D.C.
“We all know this is a polarized time. Unity is in short supply. But the gigantic and diverse Johnny Isakson fan club has never failed to pack a room,” McConnell said.
REPUBLICANS VARY ON JAN. 6 ANNIVERSARY: AVOIDANCE, REMEMBRANCE, REDIRECTION, ANGER
Isakson, 76, a longtime Georgia Republican, died Dec. 19 at his home in Atlanta after battling Parkinson’s disease. Spending more than four decades in politics, Isakson held seats in the state House, state Senate, U.S. House, and U.S. Senate before stepping down in 2019 due to health concerns.
McConnell, a Kentucky Republican, described Isakson as a “savvy legislator” and “cunning deal-maker.”
“Johnny Isakson told the truth. He played by the rules. He treated everybody with respect and unfailing kindness. A gentleman in the literal sense: a gentle man,” he said.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
McConnell, though not present in Washington, released a statement describing Jan. 6 as a “dark day for Congress and our country.”
