October 29, 1969
Page 32140
Mr. MUSKIE. Mr. President, EVERETT MCKINLEY DIRKSEN was a skillful, resourceful, and eloquent spokesman for his party and for the causes to which he dedicated his life.
To those of us who fought battles against him from the other side of the aisle, he was fair and he was thorough.
On other occasions, I had the honor to participate in Senate debate on the side which Senator DIRKSEN helped to lead. I know that if it were not for Senator DIRKSEN there may not have been a Civil Rights Act in 1964. I know that if it were not for Senator DIRKSEN there may not have been a Nuclear Test Ban Treaty.
The minority leader never deserted what he believed to be the best interest of the American people. And for that reason, few public figures have ever generated greater affection from so many Americans.
Mrs. Dirksen and her family have deepest sympathies, and his colleagues and the public will always miss his presence in the Senate Chamber.