"Today I am deeply saddened at losing such a loyal friend as Senator Kennedy. I first met Ted in 1956 at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago . Our families have long personal and political ties which were cemented with the election of President John Kennedy and the appointment of my father as the Chairman of the National Democratic Party. Ted came to campaign for me in Connecticut during my first congressional race -- despite having fallen the day before in a skiing accident. During my 17 years in Congress, I did not always agree with Senator Kennedy yet I respected his passion for what he wanted to accomplish. He was totally engaged in using his office to help people living up and down the streets of every state.

Senator Kennedy has championed legislation and reforms that have improved the lives of millions of Americans.  America 's seniors have counted on him to lead their cause in defense of the nation's two most successful government' programs...Social Security and Medicare.  Together, we fought against the privatization of Social Security and Medicare and most recently had been working to ensure health care reform also includes improvements to Medicare.  His success in reaching across party lines has been well documented and he became a hero to all of us who care about the future of America ."

Media Inquiries to:
Pamela Causey 202-216-8378/202-236-2123
Kim Wright 202-216-8414
www.ncpssm.org