SENATE WILL MISS THOMAS' HUMBLE LEADERSHIP

Washington, DC - Idaho Senator Mike Crapo praised the humble leadership of fellow Senator Craig Thomas (R-Wyoming) who passed away last night following a battle with leukemia. Crapo said Thomas' willingness to shun the spotlight in favor of advancing issues critical to the West will be sorely missed in the U.S. Senate. "Craig Thomas was a tremendous friend of mine," Crapo said. "His loss will not only be a great personal loss to me but to the entire U.S. Senate. His integrity and his solid commitment to finding solutions and to conservative fiscal policy is something that we need much more of here in Washington."Thomas and Crapo served together on the Senate Finance Committee and had worked closely on legislative efforts. Crapo noted Thomas' work on Western issues and other matters would continue because of the many friendships he had created in the Senate. "He was the kind of guy who worked in partnership and in close coalition with many, many people," Crapo added. "His initiatives will likely get a boost because of the respect that his colleagues hold for him.". # # #FOR INTERESTED MEDIA: A radio actuality is available by calling 1-800-545-1267. Press 327 at any time during or after the greeting and instructions. You can also access the actuality through the Internet at http://src.senate.gov/radio/