Area political leaders reacted this weekend to the death on Friday of former President George H.W. Bush:
U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY), the Senate Minority Leader released this statement:
President George H.W. Bush will be greatly missed in many ways. He was a fine man and even when he opposed your views, you knew he was doing what he thought was best for America. His yearning for a kinder and gentler nation seems more needed now than when he first called for it.”
Congressman Joe Morelle, (D-Irondequoit), issued this statement:
“I join our entire nation in mourning the loss of President George Herbert Walker Bush. President Bush was an American patriot and a statesman who never stopped believing in the profound work of public service and the impact it can have in our communities.
“He was a man of uncompromising character and leaves behind a legacy of integrity, kindness and respect that inspires us all to never cease in our efforts to advance and uplift the lives of all people who call our nation home.
“I extend my prayers and heartfelt condolences to the entire Bush family during this difficult time.”
Governor Andrew Cuomo directed that flags on all state government buildings be flown at half-staff in honor of President George H. W. Bush from Tuesday, December 4 until interment.
And he also issued this statement:
"President George H. W. Bush was a statesman and patriot who dedicated his life to serving his country. In World War II, he answered the call of duty and became a decorated Navy pilot, and in the decades that followed, he helped to shape the largely peaceful world that we have enjoyed since 1945. His greatest legacy may be the successful end of the Cold War, which occurred on his watch. His leadership was an important factor in the three decades of stability Europe has enjoyed since the fall of the Iron Curtain.
"He was also a great unifier of Americans at home, always willing to put country before party. President Bush showed the compassion, decency and good humor that is often lacking in our politics today. He understood that our values, no less than wealth and power, are the source of America's stature in the world
"On behalf of the New York Family, we are forever grateful for his service, mourn his passing and will keep his family in our prayers."
Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb, (R-Canandaigua), released this statement:
"It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of former President George H.W. Bush. Our nation has lost a hero, whose legacy of service and record of achievement may never be seen again.
His extraordinary commitment to our country began as a naval aviator in World War II. He later served as Ambassador to the United Nations, Envoy to China, Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, and Vice President under Ronald Reagan before ascending to the highest office in the land.
President George H.W. Bush set an example for us all, as a devoted family man, humble public servant and distinguished statesman. He was a part of our Greatest Generation and will forever be remembered for his unparalleled career and remarkable life.
Today we honor and reflect on America’s 41st President not only for his great successes but for his indelible spirit. My deepest condolences are with the Bush family at this time."
Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren issued this statement:
"Our city and our country mourn the passing of former President George H.W. Bush. President Bush's public service started as a decorated Navy Pilot in World War II and continued until his death. His demeanor in politics was of a 'kinder gentler' brand than we often see today in national politics and he was genuinely respected by other former Presidents from both political parties. In a fitting tribute his grandson George said: 'His courage was matched by his compassion; and his dedication to country was equaled only by his devotion to his family.' May he Rest In Peace and may we as a country once again find a 'kinder, gentler' tone for our politics."
This reaction from Monroe County GOP Chairman Bill Reilich:
“President George H.W. Bush spent his lifetime in the service of the United States of America. As a WWII Airman, Congressman, U.N. Ambassador, RNC Chairman, CIA Director, Vice President, and President, he continually pursued to better not only America, but the world as a whole. His actions and accomplishments, including overseeing the peaceful end of the Cold War, transcended politics and established him as a role model for future generations of Americans. On behalf of the entire Monroe County Republican Committee, we send our condolences to the Bush Family during this time.”
