1

“If anyone thinks they’re buying anything other than a handshake and a ‘thank you', they can look somewhere else.”

2

“All candidates for public office--new or used--ought to have to take truth serum before they get up to make a political speech and ought to have to take a lie detector test when they’re through.”

3

“Politics and government together are the art of the possible...and it’s amazing what can be accomplished for the good of Texas if nobody worries about who gets the credit.”

4

“When I had that heart attack (in October 1979), that came as a great surprise to people because they didn’t think I had one.”

5

 “A person who doesn’t have more friends than I’ve got ought to be authorized to carry a gun.”

6

“I’m not about to put out a revenue estimate that isn’t accurate. I love Texas too much for that.”

Houston Chronicle, July 31, 1986

7

“Why should we do less for the student in the classroom than we’d do for the football player on the field?”

8

“It’s no coincidence that a 16 foot woman with a sword stands atop the Texas Capitol.  I’ve never doubted the message, and neither should any other man.”

In remarks to the Austin Women’s Political Caucus, 1992

9

“The personal responsibility of good government does not end at the ballot box, but lives in the heart and soul of all of us who want Texas to be the best it can be.”

10

“Texas is the greatest state in the country.  We have come to understand that government is not something to fix and put away.  It is a living, changing expression of the hopes and expectations of Texans."

11

 “Most of all, I am thankful for the opportunity and trust given me by my fellow Texans who see their government as a link to a better future -- especially for our children and grandchildren and the generations to follow.”

12

 “I will leave the office [lieutenant governor] with no ill will to anyone, none, but only admiration and respect and love for the people of Texas who made this all possible for me.  Only death will end that love affair with Texas.”

13

“For some reason, I knew I would never be governor.  I guess I was too outspoken.  I was never quite diplomatic enough.”

14

“On and off for 40 years, I have walked through the halls of this magnificent Capitol building, 40 years in partnership with the people of Texas….Only death will end that love affair with Texas.”

15

“I’m going next week to get my teeth cleaned and my eyes checked. That means I will be ready to chew someone out or look over their shoulder depending on what is needed."

Before the 71^st session, Dallas Morning News, January 9, 1999