Statement on Congressman Jerry Solomon

October 26, 2001

WASHINGTON - House Rules Committee Chairman David Dreier (R-CA) issued the following statement today in reaction to the death of former Rules Committee Chairman Jerry Solomon (R-NY):

"I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my good friend Jerry Solomon. My thoughts and prayers are with Freda and their five children.

"It was an honor for me to serve with Jerry on the Rules Committee, where I had the privilege of sitting next to him for many years. I learned a great deal from him as a legislator, a Republican colleague, and a friend. As the first Republican Chairman in four decades, he brought a strength of character and an amazing caliber of leadership to the Rules Committee that continues to guide us today.

"In addition to being an outstanding Member of Congress, Jerry Solomon was a proud Marine and a tremendous patriot. As our nation faces the difficult times ahead, we can all draw upon the example of Jerry's love of country and his belief in the greatness of United States of America."