Recognizing Elizabeth Austin-Mackenzie

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the service of one of the most effective staffers this Chamber has ever known, Elizabeth Austin-Mackenzie. As staff director of the Health Subcommittee, she shepherded many of the most significant achievements of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs over the last 6 years.

Quiet and unassuming, Elizabeth has one of the sharpest minds I have worked with. She has spent the majority of her professional life advocating for this Nation's veterans with an unflappable determination to doing right by them.

She has always advised me with a clear-eyed perspective and guided her staff with an endless capacity for kindness and a good laugh.

In 2020, when many offices struggled to find ways to work effectively from home, Elizabeth ensured the Health Subcommittee didn't miss a beat.

It is safe to say that no congressional staffer did more for veterans in 2020 than Elizabeth Mackenzie. The landmark legislation, the SAVE LIVES Act, which vaccinated tens of thousands of veterans, their spouses, and their caregivers, was made possible by her determination.

We are saddened to lose this brilliant, seemingly tireless advocate to the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, but I know she will continue to do great things for veterans and this country.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source