Washington, DC—Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid made the following statement today following the announcement by U.S. Senator Trent Lott of his retirement from the U.S. Senate:

“Senator Lott has been a true friend, consistently reaching across the aisle to serve the interests of the people of Mississippi and to help me serve the interests of the people of Nevada.  He and I have also served proudly together as Leaders, ensuring that the Senate serves the nation’s interests.

“Senator Lott is one of the strongest defenders of the institution of the Senate and one of the most pleasant Senators I have ever worked with.  I am proud to have worked side-by-side with such a distinguished public servant as Trent Lott and I wish him well as he leaves the Senate.”

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