Expressing the Senate's condolences on the passing of former Oklahoma Senator David Lyle Boren and honoring his lifetime of public service.
James Lankford
Senator
OK
This resolution acknowledges the distinguished life and career of the Honorable David Lyle Boren, who served Oklahoma as a state legislator, Governor, U.S. Senator, and President of the University of Oklahoma. It expresses the Senate's condolences to his family and directs the Secretary of the Senate to notify the House of Representatives and send a copy of the resolution to his family. Upon adoption, the Senate will adjourn in honor of Senator Boren.
Senate Resolution Honors Former Oklahoma Senator David Boren, Orders Adjournment
The Senate has passed a resolution acknowledging the death of former Oklahoma Senator David Lyle Boren, who passed away on February 20, 2025, at the age of 83. This isn't about new laws or policies – it's a formal recognition of Senator Boren's extensive public service career, which included stints as an Oklahoma state legislator, Governor, U.S. Senator (from 1979 to 1994), and President of the University of Oklahoma (from 1994 to 2018).
Remembering a Life in Public Service
The resolution highlights key moments in Boren's life, like his birth on April 21, 1941, his education at Yale University and Oxford University (he was a Rhodes Scholar), and his leadership role as chair of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence from 1987 to 1992. Think of it as a formal obituary within the Senate records.
What Happens Now?
The resolution directs the Secretary of the Senate to do three things:
- Inform the House of Representatives about the resolution.
- Send an official copy of the resolution to Senator Boren's family.
- Adjourn the Senate in honor of Senator Boren once the resolution is adopted.
This is standard procedure when a former Senator passes away. It's a way for the Senate to formally express its condolences and recognize a long career of public service. The adjournment is a symbolic gesture of respect.