Fifteen term US Congressman Howard Coble announced this week that he will not run for a sixteenth term in 2014.  Those who know Congressman Coble know him as a gracious gentleman and statesman who knows every mascot at all the high schools in District 6.

He has been a great supporter of agriculture and was opposed to overly burdensome regulations on the tobacco industry. He has been in favor of drug testing for federal employees. He is against raising taxes and is a member of the Congressional Tea Party Caucus.  Most recently he voted for the bill to end the shutdown of the federal government.

A number of years ago, he pledged not to receive any pension from the US government, stating “I figured taxpayers pay my salary – not a bad salary, and I figure that’s sufficient. Let me fend for myself after the salary’s collected.” He has encouraged others to do the same.

In my role at the Locke Foundation, I often send policy papers, research, newsletters and op-eds to elected officials. Each time I sent Rep. Coble something, I always received a note or call thanking me. We often spoke at the same events or were seated on panels together. He always commented on recent JLF work and thanked me for what we do at the John Locke Foundation.  He’s a gentleman – something missing way too often in today’s political circles.

In honor of Congressman Coble, with many thanks for his years of service and since it’s Friday (and you know what that means!) here’s a favorite recipe of Howard Coble’s that appeared in Congress Cooks! 

Congressman Howard Coble’s Favorite Breakfast:

Brains N’ Eggs

2-1/2 Tablespoons bacon grease

4 eggs

1/3 cup whole milk

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 can (5 ounce) pork brains in gravy (Rose Brand preferred)

Melt bacon grease in an iron skillet on low heat. Add pork brains to heated grease. Stir with a fork. Add salt and pepper and stir. Whisk eggs and milk together. Increase heat and add egg mixture to brains. Scramble to desired consistency. Serve immediately over toast. For a truly southern dish, serve with grits and apple butter.

Serves: 2

Enjoy and eat up! You’re going to need all the brains the you can get to keep up with the 2014 elections.  Who will replace Congressman Coble in the 6th District?  As in 2012 – CJ will have that and all the coverage right here.