Remembering the Lion of the Senate

The DPNM is greatly saddened to hear of the death of Senator Ted Kennedy last night from a brain tumor. We truly feel that it is a loss for our entire country.

Kennedy, 77, had been a member of the Senate since 1962, at which time he was the youngest member of the Senate. He was the third longest serving Senator in American history. A photo retrospective on his life can be viewed here.

A champion of disability rights, human rights, civil rights and appropriately health care reform, Kennedy battled other politicians in the name of these causes, but still maintained friendships across the oft divisive party line which characterizes much of America's political landscape.

Tributes to his legacy are a testament to this unique ability of Kennedy's -- that he can work with the opposition and achieve results for all Americans, regardless of party affiliation. John Boehner (R-OH), the House Republican leader stated, "while there were few issues on which he and I agreed, our relationship was never disagreeable, and was always marked by good humor, hard work, and a desire to find common ground."

Kennedy's life goal in the Senate was to achieve comprehensive health care reform for the United States. He realized that health care was a human right, and in pursuing this goal, sought to convince other lawmakers that insomuch as health care was a human right, the debate surrounding it was not one of political preferences, but one of morality.

Kennedy's morality and ability to work with all members of Congress also led credibility to his stewardship of our Democratic Party and the countless leaders around our country who credit him with helping them make a difference in their own careers, Governor Richardson included.

Vice President Biden gave Kennedy one of the more compassionate set of remarks to be offered to far: (Other tributes from national leaders and world leaders can be viewed here.)

Aside from Vice President Biden's meaningful words, the Democratic National Committee offered a tribute to Kennedy during the national convention in 2008, before he gave an inspiring speech to the delegates at the convention.

Along with the leaders from New Mexico's Congressional delegation and from across the country, the DPNM sincerely mourns the loss of the Liberal Lion, Ted Kennedy. A champion for the masses; a voice for the disenfranchised and a true American statesman.

Perhaps one of the most memorable quotes from Senator Kennedy is also the most fitting thing to end this post:

"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."

-- Ted Kennedy

Democratic National Convention, 1980

As a sign of respect and honor, President Obama has ordered that flags flown on Federal Buildings be at half mast.