Officials remember ‘41’ on his passing

A number of officials  have weighed in on the Friday death of former President George H.W. Bush. Here’s a sampling: 

“The state of Texas mourns with the nation at the passing of one of our greatest Presidents. George  H.W.  Bush was an American hero and icon, he was a friend to all he met, he embodied class and dignity. Texans are genuinely honored that he called the Lone Star State home and we collectively grieve this monumental loss. On behalf of Texas, Cecilia and I offer our thoughts and prayers to the  Bush  family in their time of need.”

– Gov. Greg Abbott

“Today the nation mourns the loss of a great patriarch who served this country as a war hero, Congressman, CIA Director, Vice President, and President. Just as important, he will be missed by his family as a caring husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. A truly honorable and gracious man has gone home to God.”

– Sen. John Cornyn

“Today, American hearts are heavy as we bid farewell to President George H.W. Bush. He will be remembered as a good and faithful servant to his country, whose great legacy of leadership and love of homeland became a family tradition, earned him the admiration of countless Americans, and secured him a special place in the memory of every Texan.”

– Sen. Ted Cruz

“Libby and I join in honoring George H.W. Bush, who served our country in uniform through World War II, as a Texas Congressman, at the United Nations, and as President and Vice President. His longtime commitment was for country, not for self. He was a President whom we could respect and with whom sometimes we could respectfully disagree. My condolences to his family as we recognize a leader who warned against the dangers of unchecked nationalism and recognized the need for respectful cooperation with our allies around the world.” 

– U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett 

“Former “President George H. W. Bush was a leader who represented our country with dignity and a hero to many, including myself. He was an historic naval aviator. A champion of America’s space program, who came through with support when the program needed it most. And someone who demonstrated the honesty, character and integrity the citizens of our country deserve in a commander in chief. The warmth and compassion he and Barbara showed Gabby when she moved to a hospital in Houston for part of her recovery will never be forgotten by my family. Today, we honor him and all he did for the country. Our deepest sympathies are with the Bush family as they say goodbye.”

– Naval Capt. and Astronaut Mark Kelly

“Jan and I express our deepest condolences to the Bush family on the passing of our former President,  George H. W. Bush. President Bush was a great Texan whose life and work exemplify public service and love for his country. His lasting legacy will inspire Americans for generations to come.”

– Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick

“I join all Americans and Texans in mourning the passing of a true patriot and fine president, George H.W. Bush. Across six decades, President Bush served his country courageously and selflessly. His impact on the global stage, our nation and Texas history will be his single greatest legacy to future generations. And we will forever cherish the memory of the love he shared with his beloved Barbara, who preceded him in death. President Bush was an inspiration to all of us and he will be greatly missed.”

– AG Ken Paxton

“Today, we mourn the loss of an American patriot and public servant. George H.W. Bush paired his profound sense of personal responsibility with honesty, gentility, and hard work.

“In his inaugural address, he said that great nations, like great men, must keep their word. He stated that the American people did not send politicians to Washington to bicker. The American people ask their leaders to rise above the merely partisan. Throughout his life and career, President Bush embodied that sense of duty and commitment to bettering our country – whether it was fighting for Americans with disabilities, ensuring clear air for future generations, or bringing a peaceful end to the Cold War.”

– DNC Chair Tom Perez

“America has lost a great servant, and I have lost a great friend.  George  H.W.  Bush  epitomized everything wonderful about America, and like his country, he was tough, strong, and kind. He changed this nation and he changed the world ... Those who knew President  Bush  knew that his love for his country was only surpassed by his love for his family. This is an immeasurable loss for America, but I am comforted knowing that he has been reunited with his beloved, Barbara  Bush, and is now with the Lord. My family and I will continue praying for the entire  Bush  family during this difficult time.”

– Rep. Roger Williams