Remarks as prepared for delivery

I’m a bit of an interloper here today. I know from when I was presented with my chair that this is a special occasion between you (Jeff) and the outstanding team you assembled and led as Attorney General. This is really all about your team—your official family—expressing their appreciation and affection for you as a man and as their leader.

Now, you and I are older teammates, Jeff—from when we worked together in the H.W. Bush Administration—you as U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of Alabama.

I wanted to take this opportunity to salute you, Jeff—to express my admiration and affection for you, as well as my gratitude to you for all you have done for law enforcement and our justice system—both here at the Department and as a United States Senator.

I am a direct beneficiary of your stewardship as the 84th Attorney General of the United States. You left me two very special gifts.

First, you and the President assembled an exceptional leadership team here at the Department—both at Main Justice and the U.S. Attorneys throughout the country. I take great pride and pleasure in working with them. You also launched an assault on fraud against our senior citizens, as well as, starting an initiative to attack industrial espionage by the Chinese.

Second, you set an agenda and priorities that are just what our country needs. You have put in place effective and comprehensive initiatives to address violent crime; to combat drug trafficking, especially opioids; to take on human trafficking; and to strengthen immigration enforcement.

I felt a little sheepish at my first Attorney General's Advisory Committee (AGAC) meeting when I could not think of anything really new or bold to say about my priorities. All I could really say is that Jeff’s priorities are my priorities. Full speed ahead.

It is an honor for me, and for all of us to continue your work at the Department. I salute you, Jeff. God bless you.