Gov. Joe Manchin told a crowd of more than 200 in the state Capitol Wednesday that West Virginians have never lost confidence in the senior senator, who has been in Congress since 1953, with the last five decades spent in the Senate.
Manchin said Byrd was the first politician to ever win a majority of votes in all 55 counties in a contested election.
Manchin says that proves Byrd’s appeal to Democrats, Republicans and independent voters alike.
Senate President Earl Ray Tomblin (D-Logan) said Nov. 18 will forever be an important day in West Virginia after Tomblin, Sen. Richard Thompson, Gov. Manchin and Secretary of State Natalie Tennant all signed a proclamation naming the day as Sen. Robert C. Byrd Day.
“This is a very historic day, not only for Sen. Byrd, but for all of West Virginia,” Tomblin said. “He’s done so much and has been there for so long and it’s appropriate to have this ceremony recognizing the senator.
“He’s one of the greatest minds and he’s been there for more than 50 years. He’s been involved in some major issues over the years, even very actively opposing the war in Iraq. He’s still very active and has made considerable changes in this country over the last 50 years.”
The tribute to Byrd includes an exhibit in the Capitol. Photos from throughout his career sit alongside pieces of memorabilia, including his famous fiddle.
———
(The Logan Banner Managing Editor Michael Browning also contributed to this report.)
Post a Comment
