09.14.23

McConnell Pays Tribute to Mike Duncan

'It's rare to find an individual equally skilled at navigating the worlds of business and politics. But my good friend Mike is just that rare hybrid.’

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding Mike Duncan’s retirement as KY GOP National Committeeman:

“Today, I join folks in my home state in thanking Mike Duncan for his decades-long service to the Kentucky Republican Party as he steps down as National Committeeman.

“In Washington, it's rare to find an individual equally skilled at navigating the worlds of business and politics. But my good friend Mike is just that rare hybrid.

“Despite his success standing up a chain of community banks, Mike chose to commit his considerable talents to public service.

“He would serve terms as Governor of the United States Postal Service, Chairman of the Republican National Committee, and Chairman of the Tennessee Valley Authority – on top of a number of impressive positions under five Republican presidents. In my home state, Mike has served as a National Committeeman for the Kentucky GOP since 1992, advising Republican leaders at the local, state, and national levels his entire career.

“Early on, Mike had a gift for giving that he shared generously with the people of my home state. When Mike and his wife, Joanne, first moved to East Kentucky, they committed to spending at least one day a week doing something to benefit their community.

“Since then, Mike has devoted decades to student mentorship, training young people in Appalachia, and sponsoring their continued education. His lifetime of civic service has been recognized by a number of prestigious organizations.

“Somehow, between raising a family and serving his country, Mike found time to develop a close circle of friends, which I am grateful to be a part of. Mike has been a trusted source of counsel, and I am thankful to always have him in my corner.

“So, as Mike steps away from his national role, I’m grateful he will continue to be a leader in our state party and in his community. Thank you, Mike, for your decades of friendship and service to your country. Elaine and I wish you and Joanne all the best.”

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Related Issues: Tributes