Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-05-13

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF CONGRESSMAN LARRY SMITH

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Context

On 2026-05-13, Representative Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF CONGRESSMAN LARRY SMITH" in the House.

Full Text

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF CONGRESSMAN LARRY SMITH

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E443] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF CONGRESSMAN LARRY SMITH ______ HON. JARED MOSKOWITZ of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, May 13, 2026 Mr. MOSKOWITZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of former U.S. Congressman Larry Smith, whose dedication to public service, commitment to his community, and unwavering leadership left a lasting impact on the State of Florida and our Nation. Born in New York City on April 25, 1941, Congressman Smith devoted much of his life to public service, civic leadership, and advocacy on behalf of the people of South Florida. After earning his law degree from Brooklyn Law School, he moved to Florida, where he quickly became engaged in local government and community affairs. Congressman Smith began his public service career at the local level, serving as chairman of the Hollywood Planning and Zoning Board before being elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1978. His strong commitment to his constituents and his ability to bring people together soon led him to the United States Congress, where he represented Florida's 16th Congressional District from 1983 to 1993. During his tenure in Congress, Larry Smith worked tirelessly to advocate for the needs of South Florida families and communities. He was deeply committed to strengthening economic opportunities, improving infrastructure and transportation, and ensuring that his constituents' voices were heard in Washington, DC. He approached every challenge with determination, integrity, and a genuine desire to serve others. Following his service in Congress, Congressman Smith remained active in public affairs and government relations, continuing to lend his experience and leadership to both the legal profession and the broader South Florida community. Beyond his accomplishments in government, Larry Smith will be remembered for his kindness, mentorship, and devotion to his family and community. His impact extended far beyond elected office, touching the lives of countless individuals across Florida and our Nation. Mr. Speaker, as we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life dedicated to service and leadership. On behalf of the United States Congress, we extend heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, former colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. ____________________

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HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF CONGRESSMAN LARRY SMITH Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E443] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF CONGRESSMAN LARRY SMITH ______ HON. JARED MOSKOWITZ of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, May 13, 2026 Mr. MOSKOWITZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of former U.S. Congressman Larry Smith, whose dedication to public service, commitment to his community, and unwavering leadership left a lasting impact on the State of Florida and our Nation. Born in New York City on April 25, 1941, Congressman Smith devoted much of his life to public service, civic leadership, and advocacy on behalf of the people of South Florida. After earning his law degree from Brooklyn Law School, he moved to Florida, where he quickly became engaged in local government and community affairs. Congressman Smith began his public service career at the local level, serving as chairman of the Hollywood Planning and Zoning Board before being elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1978. His strong commitment to his constituents and his ability to bring people together soon led him to the United States Congress, where he represented Florida's 16th Congressional District from 1983 to 1993. During his tenure in Congress, Larry Smith worked tirelessly to advocate for the needs of South Florida families and communities. He was deeply committed to strengthening economic opportunities, improving infrastructure and transportation, and ensuring that his constituents' voices were heard in Washington, DC. He approached every challenge with determination, integrity, and a genuine desire to serve others. Following his service in Congress, Congressman Smith remained active in public affairs and government relations, continuing to lend his experience and leadership to both the legal profession and the broader South Florida community. Beyond his accomplishments in government, Larry Smith will be remembered for his kindness, mentorship, and devotion to his family and community. His impact extended far beyond elected office, touching the lives of countless individuals across Florida and our Nation. Mr. Speaker, as we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life dedicated to service and leadership. On behalf of the United States Congress, we extend heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, former colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. ____________________