Lawmakers on Monday paid tribute to Rep. Tom Latham (R-Iowa), who is retiring after 20 years in the House.
Members thanked Latham for being able to work with Democrats and for his laid-back, affable style.
{mosads}”My job has been to work with both sides of the aisle and Tom Latham is a model for doing exactly that,” said Rep. Dave Loebsack (D-Iowa).
“I’ve always noticed that Tom takes the job that he was elected to do very seriously. But he never takes himself too seriously,” said Rep. Mike Simpson (R-Idaho).
Latham, who is the chairman of the House Appropriations Transportation-Housing and Urban Development subcommittee, was also recognized for his ability to obtain funds for Iowa.
“Tom Latham today is the only Iowa member on the House Appropriations Committee and he’s done a good number of things with projects,” said Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa). “That’s an influential footprint in this Congress.”
In his parting address, Latham said it was important for lawmakers to always maintain a sense of reverence for the institution of Congress.
“I still get that chill” looking up at the Capitol dome, Latham said.
“It is the honor of my life to serve the people of Iowa and have that opportunity to be their representative,” Latham said. “It’s been an amazing ride for 20 years.”