Many of those who fought with Mel Carnahan on one issue or another admit they admired him for his candor and his strong advocacy of Missouri issues. North Dakota Senator Kent Conrad says he talked often with Carnahan and his staff about management of the Missouri River. He says Carnahan was a fierce advocate for the people of Missouri. Missouri and North Dakota have feuded for years about the river. North Dakota wants to impound water for recreation. Missouri officials want to make sure enough water flows downstream for barge traffic. Another upstream lawmaker, Senator Tom Harkin of Iowa, also praised Carnahan in a speech from the Senate floor.
