Mitch McConnell reacted to Harry Reid’s impending retirement.
The Senate majority leader had kind words for his Democratic counterpart, who announced Friday he would be retiring in 2016.
“Nothing has ever come easily to this son of Searchlight. Underestimated often, his distinctive grit and determined focus nevertheless saw him through many challenges,” McConnell said in a statement. “They continue to make him a formidable opponent today.”
The Kentucky Republican took over the Senate leadership from Reid, a Nevada Democrat, when Republicans won the majority in 2014 midterm elections. Though they have often butted heads politically, they are known to respect one another and be friends outside of Capitol Hill.
“Through every turn in his long career, Landra would be there by his side — and Harry by hers. In a short time, they will soon have the opportunity to write yet another chapter in their story together. Until then, I look forward to Senator Reid joining us in the many opportunities we’ll have to accomplish important things for the American people here in the Senate,” McConnell said.
