President, NM Senators Weigh in on Sen. Ted Kennedy's Passing

President Barack Obama:
"Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy.

"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."

Senator Jeff Bingaman:
"Ted Kennedy was a good friend, a superb human being, and a colleague who will be greatly missed by those who served with him in the Senate. As a legislator he played a role in every significant piece of social legislation that came before the Congress during his remarkable career. His extraordinary list of accomplishments were not just a function of his passion and ideals, but also his pragmatism and ability to reach across party lines to get done what was needed for the good of the country. His leadership will be particularly missed in the Senate at this critical time for health care reform. The American people have lost a great champion, but his legacy will endure.”

Senator Tom Udall:
“Senator Edward Kennedy committed his life to fighting for Americans who could not fight for themselves. His tireless drive to provide access to health care, civil rights, and improve education for all will forever serve as a model for true public service. He never gave up on accomplishing these goals and upholding the values of compromise and forging common ground and bipartisan solutions to move America forward. My thoughts, and those of my wife Jill and my father Stewart, are with Vicki and the entire Kennedy Family. We will miss his spirit, patriotism and dedication to realizing a greater vision for America now, more than ever.”

NM Lt. Governor Diane Denish:
“Ted Kennedy was sent to the Senate by the people of Massachusetts, but he was a public servant for the entire nation. The Senator was a true statesman in every sense of the word. His legislative accomplishments have bettered the lives of countless American workers, children and families. He championed the cause of female athletes through Title 9. And he fought for health care for American families every day, even in his closing days. Senator Kennedy was a man who gave his last full measure of devotion to the American people.”