Senator Schatz Statement on Senator Barbara Mikulski’s Retirement

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) released the following statement after U.S. Senator Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), Vice Chairwoman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced she would not seek reelection:

“During her career in Congress, Senator Barbara Mikulski has been one of the most accomplished legislators:  passionate about policy, always working to help others, and never backing down from a challenge.  From demanding equal rights for women to protecting Social Security and Medicare for our seniors, Senator Mikulski has made a real difference for all Americans.

“As the longest serving woman in the Senate and the first woman to be Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Barbara has inspired so many young women and girls across the country.  Her efforts to encourage more women to seek a career in public service have made the Senate and our country a better place.

“It has been a great honor to work with her on the Appropriations Committee.  I look forward to continue working with Vice Chairwoman Mikulski during the next two years and wish her all the best as she ends a remarkable career in the Senate.”

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