Romney Shares Strange Farewell Speech
Senator Mitt Romney (R-Utah) delivered his farewell address on Wednesday, bidding farewell to his colleagues and reflecting on his tenure in the U.S. Senate. In his remarks, Romney urged lawmakers to put aside divisive partisanship and prioritize unity for the good of the country.
Romney, who has also served as Governor of Massachusetts and was the GOP’s 2012 presidential nominee, described his time in public service as a “group affair,” emphasizing the importance of working together to achieve lasting solutions. He pointed to some of the key legislative accomplishments during his time in office, including the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law, reforms to the Electoral Count Act, and gun safety legislation. However, Romney also expressed frustration that more progress wasn’t made due to the toxic nature of partisan politics.
“I leave the Senate with a sense of achievement, but also with the knowledge that I did not accomplish all that I hoped,” Romney admitted, citing the inability to address the national debt as a major shortcoming. He noted that the soaring national debt not only burdens taxpayers but also limits the country’s ability to invest in essential areas, such as national defense. Romney pointed out that if the U.S. could reduce its debt burden, it could dramatically increase military spending, purchasing three times as many aircraft, ships, and drones—or, alternatively, double the amount allocated to Social Security benefits.
In his speech, Romney also emphasized his personal enjoyment of working with senators from both parties but expressed relief at leaving behind the routine of “meaningless votes” and long, drawn-out procedures that often hinder real progress. Despite his critical stance on former President Donald Trump, Romney called on future leaders to stand against forces that seek to divide the nation.
“I’ve learned that politics alone cannot solve the challenges we face,” Romney said, stressing the need for a shared commitment to unity and the nation’s core values.
Romney also acknowledged that the country’s character is shaped not just by its leaders, but by the people themselves. “I leave Washington to return to the people of Utah, and I hope to continue to be a voice for unity, virtue, and the values that have made this country great,” he concluded.
As he prepares to step down, Romney has said that the next generation of leaders should take the reins, with Rep. John Curtis (R-Utah) set to succeed him in January. Romney’s farewell marks the end of a long career in public service, but his call for unity and a commitment to strengthening the nation’s moral foundation will resonate with conservatives and citizens alike for years to come.
