| There aren't a lot of words right now. Senator Kennedy was a giant. We could talk about civil rights, equal rights, the environment, health care, or any other landmark legislation and if it happened over the past half century, Senator Kennedy had his fingerprints on it.
Today will continue like the day before, but today a giant sleeps and Texas and the world has lost a powerful voice.
President Barack Obama released a statement early this morning that sums up a lot of what I am thinking and feeling.
For five decades, virtually every major piece of legislation to advance the civil rights, health and economic well being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts.
I valued his wise counsel in the Senate, where, regardless of the swirl of events, he always had time for a new colleague. I cherished his confidence and momentous support in my race for the Presidency. And even as he waged a valiant struggle with a mortal illness, I've profited as President from his encouragement and wisdom.
An important chapter in our history has come to an end. Our country has lost a great leader, who picked up the torch of his fallen brothers and became the greatest United States Senator of our time.
And the Kennedy family has lost their patriarch, a tower of strength and support through good times and bad.
Our hearts and prayers go out to them today--to his wonderful wife, Vicki, his children Ted Jr., Patrick and Kara, his grandchildren and his extended family.
Image from www.whitehouse.gov
Our thoughts and prayers go to every friend and family member of the Kennedy family. As the health care fight wages on and American's demand leadership in the House and Senate, we ask Democrats across the country to think of Senator Kennedy and his legacy. We ask Democrats to pick up the flag and continue the hard fights. We need more Ted Kennedys, not less. Today there is one fewer champion in a time when we need more. |
