As often as we are targets of public abuse, politicians are also the beneficiaries of undeserved acclaim. After awhile, one keeps both scorn and praise in perspective. They come with the job.
Tonight is different.
I am very honored to be asked to give the third annual David Ifshin Memorial Lecture. I am honored that people who have abundant opportunities to hear from much more eloquent and interesting speakers would be interested in hearing from me. I want to say to Gail, Jake, Ben and Chloe, your friendship is a distinction that I treasure very much, indeed. David's friendship helped make me a better public servant, and a better man. Debts like that you incur for life, and I hope that, if nothing else, I can make good on that debt by always working hard to merit the respect you have honored me with this evening.