Ode to Congressman Walter Jones, R.I.P.

It was with a mix of heavy sadness and eternal respect that I learned of the passing of Congressman Walter Jones.  Over the past few years, many visits to his office and collaborations on various bi-partisan events on the Hill, I came to know him as one of the most genuine public servants in Washington.  

He was a true gentleman. I came to call him my friend.

He routinely voted across party lines, to the chagrin of his own party. And with integrity.

He always greeted me with a hug and a smile.  

He was one of the few Congress people that voted his convictions, admitted his mistakes, and didn’t let party or campaign financing lines hold him back.   He was one of the last remaining, old-style politicians.

He was one of only two House Republicans that voted across party lines to re-instate the Glass-Steagall Act; to break up the banks and protect citizens from reckless financial practices.

I hope in his honor, that this happens.

He sponsored a bi-partisan event in the Capitol Building, showcasing the film War Machine, starring Brad Pitt, as the focal point for critical debate on a bi-partisan war authorization bill.  The event was a pillar of his late-career crusade to put the war in Afghanistan to a Congressional vote.  

I hope in his honor, that this happens.

The last time I saw him was in his office in mid-December. He seemed quite weak.  But, he remained passionate about the role that those in public service can and must play on behalf of the nation.  He believed that bi-partisan collaboration could and should make a difference.

He still believed that people should come before politics.

I hope in his honor, that this happens.

Congressman Jones - Rest in Peace