Statement of House Speaker Kirk Cox on the Retirement of Delegate Scott Garrett

Virginia House of Delegates Speaker Kirk Cox released the following statement today on the retirement of Delegate T. Scott Garrett (R-Lynchburg):

“Delegate Scott Garrett will be deeply missed.

“Since 2010, Scott has worked to establish himself as one of the most-respected legislators in the House on both sides of the aisle. His knowledge and expertise on healthcare and budget matters is second to none. He demonstrated his tireless work ethic on a daily basis by chairing multiple subcommittees, serving as Vice-Chairman of the Committee on Health, Welfare and Institutions, working late into the night as a budget conferee, and contributing regularly on the floor of the House with passionate speeches. He never shied away from an assignment and was always willing to do anything asked of him.

“On a personal level, Scott is one of the most humble, grounded, and down-to-earth people you will ever meet. He is confident in who he is and what he believes. His passionate beliefs and values were shaped by his deep and abiding faith, love for his family, and experiences as an emergency room surgeon saving the lives of his fellow man on a daily basis.

“But more than all of this, Scott was a loyal friend to me. He had a remarkable ability to show you every single day how much he cared for you. He was never lacking for a one-liner or quip, but the one we will all miss the most is his consistent admonishment to smile. And while it is incredibly difficult to see him leave, I will smile today for Scott, Whitney, Tyler and Haley Gray as they close this chapter of public service and move on with their lives.

“The House of Delegates, and the Commonwealth of Virginia, is a better place because of Scott Garrett’s service. He is owed a deep debt of gratitude and nothing but well wishes for his future.”