In a heartfelt farewell address on Wednesday, Senator Mitt Romney reflected on his time in office, expressing deep appreciation for his fellow lawmakers and emphasizing the need for national unity and civic responsibility. Addressing the U.S. Senate as he concluded his six-year term representing Utah, the 77-year-old Republican described his time in Washington as “an honor.”
Romney openly praised both Democratic and Republican colleagues for their collaboration, admitting with a hint of surprise, “I’ve come to truly admire and like many senators on both sides of the aisle.”
During his term, Romney became known for his role in key bipartisan efforts. His reputation for integrity and results earned him widespread respect across the chamber. Around two dozen senators attended his farewell speech, with many offering personal tributes.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell recognized Romney’s “unwavering honesty, humility, and strong faith,” while Democratic Senator Cory Booker called him a “true American patriot.” Independent Senator Joe Manchin noted that his relationship with Romney had personally made him “a better man.”
Romney used much of his remarks to honor the people who helped shape his journey—from campaign aides to Senate staff and business partners. He asked that many of their names be added to the official Senate record, thanking them one by one. He also spoke lovingly of his wife Ann, referring to her as his “greatest supporter and most trusted counselor.” She watched from the gallery with three of their sons and several grandchildren. Romney’s Senate staff filled benches on the chamber floor.
Romney candidly recalled feeling ineffective during his first months in office. That changed when Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska invited him to a socially distanced dinner during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. It was the beginning of a cross-party effort to deliver much-needed relief, culminating in a legislative package signed into law by then-President Donald Trump.
This group—later dubbed the “Group of Ten”—included Senators Manchin, Portman, Sinema, Collins, Warner, Tester, Cassidy, and Shaheen. They would go on to lead bipartisan initiatives on infrastructure, electoral reforms, marriage rights, and gun safety laws.
Romney credited these partnerships with meaningful accomplishments. “We came to Washington to help people,” he said. “Together, we did just that—things none of us could have done alone.”
Though he admitted he wouldn’t miss every aspect of Senate life—such as procedural votes—Romney expressed sincere affection for his peers: “Among you are some of the brightest, funniest, kindest, and most patriotic individuals I’ve ever known.”
His farewell drew a crowd that reflected his legacy: bipartisan, pragmatic, and respected. Many of the original “Group of Ten” were present, alongside more than a dozen Democratic senators. Cory Booker greeted him with a warm embrace as Romney entered the chamber. After his speech, senators lined up to shake his hand and say goodbye.
Senator-elect John Curtis, who will replace Romney in January, observed the speech from the Senate floor. Notably absent was Romney’s fellow Utah Senator Mike Lee, though Lee later issued a written statement thanking Romney for his service and wishing him well.
In closing, Romney spoke directly to the people of Utah, praising their character as the state’s true strength. He admitted he hadn’t achieved all he hoped for in office but felt proud of what was accomplished. Still, he warned of the ongoing dangers posed by political division and fiscal irresponsibility.
“Our national debt continues to grow unchecked,” he said. “Partisan gridlock has blocked critical reforms, and we’re running dangerously close to the financial edge.”
Romney ended with a pointed message: “Our country’s future depends on the strength of our character—both of our people and our leaders. God will bless America only if we live in a way that deserves it.”
His colleagues responded with a standing ovation. As he stepped away from public office, Romney left behind a message of principle, gratitude, and the enduring hope for a more unified nation.
