Robert C. Byrd Quotes

A collection of quotes by Robert C. Byrd.

Robert C. Byrd (1917-2010) was an American politician who served as a United States Senator from West Virginia for nearly 51 years, making him the longest-serving senator in the country's history. Born in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina, Byrd moved to West Virginia as a child and eventually became deeply connected to the state.

Byrd's political career began in the 1940s when he was elected to the West Virginia House of Delegates. In 1952, he won a seat in the United States House of Representatives and later successfully ran for the United States Senate in 1958. Throughout his career, Byrd was known for his mastery of Senate rules and traditions, which enabled him to amass considerable power and influence.

During his time in the Senate, Byrd held several prominent positions, including serving as Senate Majority Whip (1971-1989) and Senate Minority Leader (1981-1987). He also chaired numerous influential committees, including the Appropriations Committee and the Rules and Administration Committee.

Byrd was regarded as a progressive on labor and civil rights issues, but his early political career was marred by association with the Ku Klux Klan, a membership he later renounced and apologized for. Over the years, he dedicated significant efforts to securing federal funding for infrastructure and development projects in his home state, earning him the nickname "King of Pork."

Robert C. Byrd passed away on June 28, 2010, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential and longest-serving senators in American history.