Retiring Senator Don Nickles makes final speech in US Senate

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ Oklahoma Senator Don Nickles has given his final speech on the floor of the U-S Senate. <br/><br/>Nickles mixed tributes to current and former colleagues with recollections of his

Saturday, November 20th 2004, 4:02 pm

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ Oklahoma Senator Don Nickles has given his final speech on the floor of the U-S Senate.

Nickles mixed tributes to current and former colleagues with recollections of his achievements and gratitude to his constituents, friends, family and staff.

Nickles said he couldn't believe he spent 24 years in the Senate and that two of his children are now older than he was when he was elected at age 32 in 1981.

Nickles achievements include securing tax cuts, deregulating natural gas and requiring Congress follow many of the same rules it imposes on the private sector.

Nickles held many leadership positions including assistant majority leader. His 24 years is tied with Elmer Thomas for the longest by an Oklahoma senator.

He'll be replaced in January by Republican Tom Coburn.