Congressman Gregory W. Meeks Mourns the Loss of Senator Edward M. Kennedy

(WASHINGTON, DC)– Congressman Gregory W. Meeks (NY-6) released the following statement today in regards to the tragic death of Senator Edward M. Kennedy, who served the state of Massachusetts for nearly five decades:

“Like all Americans of good will, regardless of party affiliation or political ideology, I am stunned by the passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy. It is hard to grasp how life will be inside and outside of Congress without the “Liberal Lion” of the Senate. All of the major legislation of the last half-century that has made our lives fairer, more equal, healthier, and more inclusive; our democracy more sincere; our water and air cleaner; our children better educated; our pay more equitable; our workplace safer; our foreign policy more realistic and effective; and our planet more peaceful, bears Senator Kennedy's imprint and impact.
There is no doubt that his contributions will be felt far into the future. He has brought a lifetime of dedication and service to not just his constituents of Massachusetts, but to each and every citizen of the United States. Generations to come will benefit from his singular role in effecting change throughout the legislative process.

Our nation has lost a great patriot who breathed humanism and compassion into that term. The Kennedy family has lost "Uncle Teddy," their patriarch, their core, their inexhaustible source of strength in the face of tragedy. I extend heartfelt sympathies to the Senator's wife, Vicki, and entire Kennedy family during this difficult time.

I deem this a personal loss, as well. I had the honor of getting to know the Senator during the 2004 presidential campaign. I remember when he hosted key leaders and activists in the Kerry campaign at the Kennedy compound at Hyannis Port. He was so friendly, so cordial, so inquisitive, so eager to hear what others thought, and so attentive to those of us who were relatively new to national campaigns.

This unique American giant will be missed. But, I fervent hope is that those of us who serve in the Senate or the House will go forward to address the great challenges that remain with Senator Ted Kennedy’s words as our guiding principle: "For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on. The cause endures, the hope still lives and the dream shall never die."