Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., had high praise for his colleague Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., after the latter announced he will retire from the Senate at the end of his current term.
"It's been one of the great honors of my life to have the opportunity to serve with a man of integrity, honor, decency, and commitment to not only Arizona but the United States of America," McCain said on the Senate floor, minutes after Flake said he will not run for reelection in 2018.
Flake never mentioned President Donald Trump by name, but it was clear he was referring to him as he described the turmoil that is enveloped the Republican Party and the rhetoric that comes out of the White House.
Flake has pushed back on some of Trump's agenda, which has not sat well with the president. McCain has too, including the healthcare debate.
"I have seen Jeff Flake stand up for what he believes in, knowing full well that there would be a political price to pay," McCain said. "I have seen him stand up for his family. I've seen him stand up for his forbearers who were the early settlers of the state of Arizona.
"One of the great privileges of my life has been to have the opportunity to know you and serve with you."
Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., announced last month he will also retire at the end of his current term.
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