Senator Edward Kennedy, 77, dies - the end of an era
August 25, 2009
WASHINGTON (Reuters) U.S. Senator Edward Kennedy, a major figure in the Democratic Party who took the helm of one of America's most fabled political families after two older brothers were assassinated, died late on Tuesday, CNN said. He was 77.
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I suspect that whether folks lean to the right or the left, all join in sadness at the passing of this legendary and tireless Senator.
He was loved and admired by his political allies and opponents who knew him and only real strangers vilified only from afar. Those who knew him called him "friend" whatever their political views.
He was perhaps one of the most effective legislators the Senate has seen in years. He invented the concept of "reaching across the isle" before anyone coined the phrase. While vigorously fighting for the issues he loved the most, he was the master of compromise and, as a result, had deep friendships with leading Republicans.
Ted Kennedy's passing marks the end of an era of Kennedy men of his generation. His family stands as an example of the adage that with great privilege comes great responsibility.
Perhaps two families in American life have exemplified that philosophy so as to stand out in the crowd: the Rockefellers and the Kennedys. That legacy continues in the Kennedy family.
Ted Kennedy survived scandals, tragedies, and physical pain to devote his life to public service. Though blessed with material wealth, he was always an advocate for the poor and disenfranchised.
While there are issues with which I disagreed with the Senator, I have also admired him and his family. It impresses me that in his last days, he was urging the Massachusetts legislature to think about his succession.
America will miss Senator Edward Kennedy.
"The dream shall never die."
1980, Democratic National Convention