Romney also looked back on his early days in the Senate, admitting it took time to find his rhythm. A turning point came when Senator Lisa Murkowski invited him to a socially-distanced dinner during the pandemic. That gathering evolved into a productive working group that helped bridge gaps between Congress and the White House, ultimately crafting COVID relief legislation signed into law in 2020.
He credited the coalition—Murkowski, Manchin, Portman, Sinema, Collins, Warner, Tester, Cassidy, and Shaheen—for showing that bipartisan cooperation can lead to meaningful progress. “What we could never have done alone, we achieved together,” he said. “Each of us came to Washington to pass laws that would benefit people, and that’s exactly what we did.”
Though he admitted he wouldn’t miss every aspect of Senate life—particularly the lengthy procedural votes—Romney said he would deeply miss working alongside his colleagues. “Among you are some brilliant, some entertaining, some kind and generous, and all patriotic,” he said. “Being able to serve alongside you is an honor.”
The chamber gave him a standing ovation, with senators lining up afterward to shake his hand and offer their personal goodbyes. Senator-elect John Curtis, who will succeed Romney in January, watched from the Senate floor. Romney’s fellow Utah senator, Mike Lee, was not present but later issued a brief written statement thanking Romney for his service.
Romney also took time to praise the people of Utah. “It’s not just the stunning landscapes or vibrant economy that define Utah,” he said. “It’s the character of its people.” He acknowledged that not every legislative goal had been met but said he was leaving the Senate with “a sense of achievement.”
In his closing remarks, Romney issued a warning about the nation’s growing debt, urging bipartisan solutions to address the issue. “Our national credit card is nearly maxed out,” he said, adding that political gridlock has slowed necessary reforms.
He ended with a hopeful message: “A nation’s character is a reflection of its people as well as its elected officials. God will continue to bless America only if the American people deserve His kindness. I leave Washington hoping to be one of them—a voice for unity and virtue.”
As he walked out of the chamber to applause and warm embraces, Senator Mitt Romney concluded his time in public office with a message of integrity, service, and cooperation—values that marked his Senate legacy.