HARTFORD— U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Friday applauded Senate passage of a resolution they introduced honoring the late U.S. Senator Joseph Lieberman.

“Few people left a bigger mark on this world than Joe Lieberman. The history books will remember him for his work to combat climate change, fight for gay rights, and protect the homeland, along with his groundbreaking role as the first Jewish nominee for national office. But I will remember most working with him day in and day out to bring federal dollars back to Connecticut and fighting for policies that made our state stronger. Joe refused to be defined by his party, he led with decency and character, and he conveyed an unbridled enthusiasm for public service. He was one of one, and Connecticut was lucky to have him,” said Murphy.

“Joe Lieberman was a monumental figure in Connecticut and national politics and I will always remember him for his unwavering values and willingness to bridge divides. He was ferociously independent and deeply strong willed, but also eager to listen, understand and learn from others. Joe’s story ended too soon, but his legacy is large and lasting,” said Blumenthal.  

Lieberman was born in Stamford, Connecticut in 1942 and graduated from Yale University in 1964 and Yale Law School in 1967. Lieberman was elected Attorney General of the State of Connecticut in 1982, where he led efforts to set higher standards of legal assistance to state agencies and implement a focus on constituent services that continues to this day. During his tenure as Attorney General, Lieberman fought to expand and enforce consumer and environmental protections—efforts he continued to build on once elected to the United States Senate in 1988.

Lieberman served as U.S. Senator for Connecticut from 1988 to 2012 and played a key role in creating the Department of Homeland Security and establishing the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States following September 11, 2001.

While serving in the Senate, Lieberman was a strong advocate for civil rights and led efforts to repeal the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy of the U.S. Armed Forces. He also led passage of the Clean Air Act of 1990, promoted legislation to warn consumers about the dangers of pesticides and was an early supporter of efforts to combat climate change.

In 2000, Lieberman made history as the first Jewish major party nominee for the position of Vice President as Al Gore’s running mate. After leaving public office, Lieberman continued his work in national security and civil rights through organizations such as the Muslim-Jewish Advisory Council and the Counter Extremism Project.

The resolution was introduced and passed the Senate on April 18, 2024. Text of the Senate resolution can be found HERE.

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