Congresswoman McCollum's Remarks on the Passing of former Minnesota Senator Rod Grams

I would like to extend my condolences to the family and friends of former U.S. Senator Rod Grams who represented Minnesota from 1995 to 2001. He had previously been elected to the U.S. House in 1992 where he served one term. Senator Grams passed away last night at home in Crown, MN. He was 65 years old.

Senator Grams was a Republican who fought hard for the issues he believed in and worked to find common ground on issues that concerned Minnesotans. Before entering politics Sen. Grams was a well known television newscaster in the Twin Cities. I remember watching him frequently.

While serving in the U.S. House and Senate I did not have contact with Sen. Grams, but following his time in elected office I had many interactions with him as he represented various private clients. I always found Rod Grams to be a kind and engaging man who cared deeply about Minnesota.

The public service provided by Senator Rod Grams is to be honored and respected. He was a conservative who cared about Minnesota and its people. Again, Mr. Speaker, I extend my condolences to his family, friends, and supporters.