Other Senators had words of praise for the new Senate President. Over the past two years he worked hard and was a valuable member of the Senate, especially through his work on Senate Finance. He clearly recognizes that to make the Senate work you need to draw on the talents of all 24 members. Art works well with his colleagues and I see him being very approachable from both sides of the aisle. We need someone who will welcome a free flow of ideas but who will also keep the Senate moving forward.
Art has the temperament and the skills to make that careful balance work.
Ned Gordon of Bristol, who himself was a candidate for Senate President, noted Klemm's ability to include differing viewpoints in important debates. That ability is going to be key to resolving thorny issues. Art is perceived as someone who will be very open-minded and who will seek out a broad range of input. I was elected to represent all the people of my district, not only those of one party, and I am confident that Senator Klemm will be a good leader for the whole Senate. Newcomer Russell Prescott of Kingston agreed.