WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In response to the passing of former Oregon Governor and Senator Mark Hatfield, NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith issued the following statement:
"History should record that Mark O. Hatfield was Oregon's greatest public servant of the 20th century. If Oregon had a Mt. Rushmore for its public servants, Senator Hatfield would be on it. His uniquely independent voice allowed him to represent the best interests of Oregonians even though, at times, his conscience led him to tack into the political winds as a statesman.
The day I was sworn in as a U.S. senator, he said to me 'If you are faithful to your family and your God, you'll do right by your country." Clearly, this is a creed Mark lived by. Senator Hatfield built his legacy by staying true to his beliefs, even if that meant standing alone.
While I have lost a friend and a valued mentor, Oregon and our nation have lost a dedicated public servant and a true gentleman."
About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.
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