On Wednesday night, I spoke on the Senate floor to remember the life and legacy of my friend, Lowell Weicker. There is no Connecticut political figure who has played a greater role in my life. I was 17 years old when he bucked both parties and called for the passage of an income tax to solve a massive state fiscal crisis. At that age, I'm sure I knew very little about the wisdom of an income tax, but I remember being stunned that a political leader would champion something he knew to be unpopular simply because he believed it was the right thing. It ran contrary to every stereotype I had been spoon-fed about politics, and it confirmed for me that there could be honor in pursuing a career in public service.
Throughout his long, storied tenure as an elected official, for most of that time a Republican and later as an Independent, he led life by one simple axiom: do what is right.
I hope you’ll take a few minutes to learn about one of the most consequential leaders in Connecticut history. They don't make them like Lowell Weicker anymore.
Senator, I saw your speech. I wanted to mention that the Lowell MA and Oyster Bay connection to Theodore Roosevelt for Mr. Weicker is very cool. TR was secretary of the Navy, Lowell is on the Merrimac. The USS Merrimack became the CSS Virginia. And, the USS Virginia class submarine is made in Groton.
www.PEYTORILL.com/Navy
Also: www.GROTON.Navy/Navy