Senator Edward Moore Kennedy

First Term 1962–1964

“The Senate is surely one of the most important bodies in the Free World.”

Second Term 1965–1970

“The reason for reform and progress is not merely to head off conflict. The reason is to do what’s necessary and right.”

Third Term 1971–1976

“…we should use our powers not to create conditions of oppression that lead to violence, but conditions of freedom that lead to peace.”

Fourth Term 1977–1982

“For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die.”

Fifth Term 1983–1988

“The first duty of the loyal opposition is to be loyal to our own convictions.”

Sixth Term 1989–1994

“We must stand with pride and without apology for the great unfinished cause of civil rights.”

Seventh Term 1995–2000

“I believe securing quality, affordable health insurance for every American is a matter of simple justice.”

Eighth Term 2001–2006

“And today, we stand together as brothers and sisters to shape America’s destiny—old Americans, future Americans—all joined together for the common good.”

Ninth Term 2007–2009

“There is a new wave of change all around us, and if we set our compass true, we will reach our destination—not merely victory for our Party, but renewal for our nation.”