HONORING THE DISTINGUISHED CAREER OF STATE SENATOR LELA ALSTON

On 2026-09-16, Representative Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ-3) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE DISTINGUISHED CAREER OF STATE SENATOR LELA ALSTON" in the House.

HONORING THE DISTINGUISHED CAREER OF STATE SENATOR LELA ALSTON

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 146 (Wednesday, September 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 146 (Wednesday, September 16, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E937-E938] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE DISTINGUISHED CAREER OF STATE SENATOR LELA ALSTON ______ HON. YASSAMIN ANSARI of arizona in the house of representatives Wednesday, September 16, 2026 Ms. ANSARI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the remarkable public service career of State Senator Lela Alston upon her retirement from the Arizona Legislature after decades of dedicated service to the people of Arizona. For more than four decades, State Senator Alston has been a steadfast advocate for her constituents and a respected leader within Arizona's government. Throughout her tenure in both the Arizona House of Representatives and the Arizona State Senate, she earned a reputation for integrity, pragmatism, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Arizona families. Representing communities across central Phoenix, currently Legislative District 5, State Senator Alston has consistently championed policies that expand opportunity, strengthen public education, support working families, and protect vulnerable populations. Her leadership has been defined by a deep understanding of the challenges facing her constituents and a determination to bring people together in pursuit of practical solutions. State Senator Alston's impact extends far beyond the legislation she helped enact. As one of Arizona's most respected public servants, she has mentored countless elected officials, community leaders, and public servants who have followed in her footsteps. Her dedication to public service, her ability to build consensus, and her commitment to treating all people with dignity and respect have left an enduring mark on Arizona's civic life. Throughout her career, State Senator Alston demonstrated that effective leadership is rooted in service, compassion, and a genuine commitment to the public good. Her voice has been a powerful force for her community, and her contributions have helped shape Arizona for the better. As she concludes her distinguished legislative career, we celebrate not only her many accomplishments, but also the example she has set for future generations of public servants. The people of Arizona have been well served by her leadership, and her legacy will continue to be felt for years to come. On behalf of Arizona's 3rd Congressional District and the United States House of Representatives, I extend my deepest gratitude to State Senator Lela Alston for her extraordinary [[Page E938]] service to the State of Arizona. I congratulate her on her retirement and wish her continued happiness, health, and success in the years ahead. ____________________