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As the U.S. Senate begins a budget settlement vote Saturday night, one senator took a few minutes to highlight Rep. Jackie Valorski and her staff, who died in a car accident this week.
“Mr. President, I stand today in memory of the lives of four Indians who tragically lost their lives in a car accident this week,” Sen. Todd Young, R-IN, said before the Senate.
He then named Walorski, 58, communications director Emma Thomson, 28, and district director Zachary Potts, 27, who were killed Wednesday in a head-on collision in Elkhart County, Indiana. The only occupant of the other vehicle, Edith Schmucker, 56, was also killed in the collision.
“Our hearts go out to all of them, and our prayers are with their families and friends,” Young said. “Like everyone here and in Indiana, I am heartbroken.”
Representative funeral. JACKIE WALORSKI Thursday suit
“Certainly, this is a very difficult time for those of us who know one or more Indians, it’s a very difficult time for their families, their friends and all of us, ‘ he added.
“I think one of the things that hit everyone particularly hard was the loss of two young congressional staffers, and whether you know Zach or Emma, you definitely know their type. If you’re on Capitol Hill watching these Litigation, and you get to know a hard-working, intelligent, committed young man who came to work on the congressional staff. They gave up a great deal of their time, talents and other opportunities to serve their country.”
Indiana Republican Congressman Jackie Varsky killed in car crash
“We should celebrate their accomplishments and grieve their losses at the same time. I think it’s a reminder to all of us to thank the many congressional staffers who have done so much more than the public knows,” Yang continued. said.
Young also recognized his colleague, who said he had “contagious” confidence “that can light up a room”.
“Jackie knew she belonged here. Jackie knew it was her calling,” he said. “She doesn’t need people to tell her she belongs there, she can work because she has something to accomplish.”
Republicans, Democrats react to Republicans. WALORSKI’s tragic car crash death: ‘Just the worst news’
“Her confidence was infectious. Everyone saw it. Everyone was impressed with it. People loved being with her, including me,” Yang added. “Jackie has many other amazing qualities.”
U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-IN) speaks on the economy during a news conference at the U.S. Capitol on May 4, 2022 in Washington, DC.
(Kevin Deitch/Getty Images)
He continued: “She’s always so energetic. She’s a lightning bolt. She can light up a room, which is unique. She’s full of energy and enthusiasm. Jackie also has a very big heart.”
Young also describes Walorski as an “otherworldly figure” who “motivates and inspires people.”
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“It’s no exaggeration to say that Jackie’s last breath was in the service of her constituents, her God, the great state of Indiana and her country,” he concluded.
Walorski’s funeral will be held at the Granger Community Church in Granger, Indiana, on August 11 at 11 a.m. ET.
