The greatest expectations were placed upon Ted Kennedy’s shoulders because of who he was, but he surpassed them all because of who he became. We do not weep for him today because of the prestige attached to his name or his office. We weep because we loved this kind and tender hero who persevered through pain and tragedy – not for the sake of ambition or vanity; not for wealth or power; but only for the people and the country that he loved.
— President Barack Obama, in his eulogy to Edward Kenendy
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There is no morality in the mushroom cloud. The black rain will fall equally on the just and the unjust. And the world that is left in the ashes of Armageddon will little note nor long remember which was the evil empire.
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Our appeal to the American people is this: Seek a reign of justice in which voting rights and equal protection of the law will everywhere be enjoyed; public faculties and private ones serving a public purpose will be accessible to all; equal education and cultural opportunities, hiring and promotion, medical and hospital care, open occupancy in housing will be available to all.
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The President, the Vice President, the members of Congress have a medical plan that meets their needs in full, and whenever senators and representatives catch a little cold, the Capitol physician will see them immediately, treat them promptly, fill a prescription on the spot. We do not get a bill even if we ask for it, and when do you think was the last time a member of Congress asked for a bill from the Federal Government? And I say again, as I have before, if health insurance is good enough for the President, the Vice President, the Congress of the United States, then it’s good enough for you and every family in America.
— Senator Ted Kennedy, 1980 Democratic National Convention on the need for health care reform.
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It is the glory and the greatness of our tradition to speak for those who have no voice, to remember those who are forgotten, to respond to the frustrations and fulfill the aspirations of all Americans seeking a better life in a better land.
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Boston Red Sox honor Ted Kenendy
The New England baseball club, owned by John Henry, paused before its Wednesday evening game to honor one of the most legendary political leaders in Massachusetts and American history, who threw out the first pitch on Opening Day at Fenway Park in April.
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Senator Edward Kennedy fearlessly challenged this country to be better. His loss is tragic, but his legacy will forever endure. It will survive in the generations he transformed, the people he helped, and the country he adored.
— New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo on the death of Ted Kennedy
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Senator Kennedy had a grand vision for America, and an unparalleled ability to effect change. Rooted in his deep patriotism, his abiding faith, and his deep concern for the least among us, no one has done more than Senator Kennedy to educate our children, care for our seniors, and ensure equality for all Americans. Ted Kennedy’s dream of quality health care for all Americans will be made real this year because of his leadership and his inspiration.
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Maria and I are immensely saddened by the passing of Uncle Teddy. He was known to the world as the Lion of the Senate, a champion of social justice, and a political icon. Most importantly, he was the rock of our family: a loving husband, father, brother and uncle. He was a man of great faith and character.
— California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger on the death of Ted Kenendy
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One of the Commonwealth’s brightest lights went out last night. Ted Kennedy was a compassionate, effective, visionary statesman, family man, and friend. Diane and I were blessed by his company, support, and many kindnesses, and miss him profoundly. We pray for comfort for his beloved wife and partner Vicki and his entire family.
— Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick on the death of Ted Kennedy
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I truly, truly am distressed by his passing…Teddy spent a lifetime working for a fair and more just America. For 36 years, I had the privilege of going to work every day and sitting next to him and being witness to history… He restored my sense of idealism.
— Vice President Joe Biden on the death of Ted Kennedy
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Ted Kennedy was a joyous and powerful light in the life of every person touched by his life’s work. We will miss him terribly, as a leader and a colleague and a friend. His spirit will continue to lift the hearts of all who seek fairness and compassion in our lives. Barb and I send our sympathy and love to Vicki and the entire Kennedy family.
— Michigan Senator Carl Levin on the death of Ted Kennedy
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