August 09, 2019

Durbin Statement On Passing Of U.S. Representative Paul Findley

DECATUR – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today released the following statement on the passing of former U.S. Representative Paul Findley, who represented Illinois’ 20th Congressional District from January 3, 1961 – January 3, 1983:

“Paul Findley was my political opponent, but he was also my friend.  In 1982, I prevailed in the election over twenty-two year incumbent Congressman Paul Findley.  Over the years, our infrequent conversations increased in number and a friendship emerged.  I was honored when he invited me to address his beloved Alma mater, Illinois College in Jacksonville.  I could not have asked for a more generous introduction.

“Paul Findley will be remembered as a true expert in Ag policy, a small town newspaper publisher with a passion for foreign policy, and an elected official who showed exceptional courage in tackling the age old controversies in the Middle East.

“With Paul Findley’s passing, Illinois has lost an exceptional public servant and I have lost a friend.”

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