Tonight I had the opportunity to witness an historic event: President Clinton shared the stage with Senators Bumpers and Pryor (David), in an informal, candid discussion moderated by former White House Chief of Staff Mack McClarty.  Governor Beebe kicked the event off, then joned the audience to listen to three of the giants of Arkansas politics.

The time flew by-could have listened to the tales of the Gillett Coon Supper, gubernatorial vetos, making tough decisions and more-all night.

In the end, all three agreed that you have to stand up for what's right, and not be afraid to own it. President Clinton cited Charleston's peaceful school integration when Dale Bumpers was a lawyer there, and David Pryor's decision to vote to seat an integrated Mississippi delegation at the Democratic National Convention as examples of the well known courage both Senators displayed repeatedly in their careers.  President Clinton also acknowledged the difficulty in changing your mind after you have committed to a position (but perhaps before you knew all the facts).  He described that as a tough situation because you risk breaking your word or doing something you might have realized was not the best thing to do.

All three men talked about the importance of public service. All said that to run for office, you need to love people, policy, and politics. But you can be a great public servant with just the love of people and policy.

More than ever, I came away ready for battle next week on my conflict of interests bill and my energy efficiency, renewables, and weatherization bills. I know my position is right, and I am prepared to fight for it.

We are very lucky to have the Clinton Library here, and I hope you take advantage of some of the many wonderful speakers we have here.