BOSTON (Reuters) – U.S. Senator Edward Kennedy, a towering figure in the Democratic Party who took the helm of one of America’s most fabled political families after two older brothers were assassinated, has died, his family said. He was 77.

senator“Edward M. Kennedy, the husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle we loved so deeply, died late Tuesday night at home in Hyannis Port (Massachusetts),” the Kennedy family said in a statement.

One of the most influential and longest-serving senators in U.S. history — a liberal standard-bearer who was also known as a consummate congressional dealmaker — Kennedy had been battling brain cancer, which was diagnosed in May 2008.

“We’ve lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever,” the family statement said.

“He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it. He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it’s hard to imagine any of them without him,” the family added.

His death marked the twilight of a political dynasty and dealt a blow to Democrats as they seek to answer President Barack Obama’s call for an overhaul of the healthcare system. Kennedy had made healthcare reform his signature cause.”

Sorry I have no words of my own to say right now.

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KQµårk 死神AdLibKalima Recent comment authors
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AdLib
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He continued to make a huge impact on this nation right up until the end. His support of Obama was a big turning point in the election and his commitment to Health Care Reform is the torch that Obama and many other Dems have and will continue to carry.

It is disappointing that he did not live long enough to vote on and pass the legislation that he has been championing for most of his professional life. Still, his passing at this time may be just the inspiration that Dems need to get this bill passed as EK would have wanted, it’s passage could be a tribute to him as well as the right thing to do for all Americans.

In the Senate, they should rename the bill after him.

There are not many politicians in history that cast a shadow as big as his, he was a true and principled liberal and progressive, he will be greatly missed.

Kalima
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This is truly sad, I am so sorry for your loss. I know how much he was loved and how much he will be missed.

My condolences to the people of America and my dear friends. RIP Senator Kennedy.