Cohen Statement on the Passing of U.S. Senator Frank Lautenberg

Washington, D.C. -- Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today released the following statement on the recent passing of Senator Frank Lautenberg of New Jersey:

“This week the Senate lost a giant. Senator Frank Lautenberg dedicated his life to helping working families reach for the American Dream. He was the longest-serving Senator in New Jersey history and was the last remaining World War II veteran in the Senate. A proud son of hard-working immigrants, Senator Lautenberg rose from humble beginnings to meet success in the private and public sectors. He was instrumental in banning smoking on airplanes, increasing the drinking age to 21, and modernizing the G.I. bill to ensure today’s veterans can benefit from the same opportunities he received as a World War II veteran. Senator Lautenberg was kind to me from the very first time we met in 2007 during my freshman term in the House. He was an engaging, kind-hearted man who said what he meant and fought for what he believed in. I will miss his friendship and America will miss his service. Please join me in keeping Senator Frank Lautenberg and his family in our thoughts and prayers.”