Senate GOP Whip says goodbye to Dr. No

Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) said it was an honor to serve with Sen. Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) despite occasionally being a “pain” for the GOP.

“Tom can be a very charming guys, but I also know he can be a pain in our side,” Cornyn said on the Senate floor Monday. “He’s been a relentless fighter for limited government and conservative values.”

{mosads}Coburn, who earned the nickname Dr. No, frequently insists on having votes on his amendments that aim to reduce duplication within government. 

Coburn has battled cancer three times and is currently being treated again.

Rep. James Lankford (R-Okla.) won the midterm election to replace Coburn at the start of next year.

Cornyn also delivered farewell remarks to retiring Sens. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.) and Saxby Chambliss (R-Ga.).