Statements from colleagues on Edwards’s passing

Statement by the President on the Passing of Elizabeth Edwards

Michelle and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Elizabeth Edwards. This afternoon I spoke to Cate Edwards and John Edwards, and offered our family’s condolences. I came to know and admire Elizabeth over the course of the presidential campaign. She was a tenacious advocate for fixing our health care system and fighting poverty, and our country has benefited from the voice she gave to the cause of building a society that lifts up all those left behind.

In her life, Elizabeth Edwards knew tragedy and pain. Many others would have turned inward; many others in the face of such adversity would have given up. But through all that she endured, Elizabeth revealed a kind of fortitude and grace that will long remain a source of inspiration. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.

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HAGAN COMMENTS ON PASSING OF ELIZABETH EDWARDS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kay R. Hagan (D-NC) today released the following statement regarding the news that Elizabeth Edwards has lost her battle with cancer:

“I am very saddened to hear about Elizabeth Edwards’ death. She was a dedicated mother and a passionate advocate for cancer research and health care causes. During her remarkable life, Elizabeth always carried herself with dignity. She used her battle with breast cancer to raise cancer awareness and create change. She faced her battle in the public eye, and I very much admired her strength and courage.

“My thoughts and prayers are with her family at this extremely difficult time.”

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Senator Burr Statement on the Passing of Elizabeth Edwards

Washington, D.C. – Senator Richard Burr (R-North Carolina) today issued the following statement on the passing of Elizabeth Edwards:

“Brooke and I were saddened to learn this afternoon of the passing of Elizabeth Edwards. She was a passionate advocate for issues she believed in and a caring and loving mother. Her legacy should serve as an inspiration to all of us. Her life was not without tragedy and adversity, yet through it all she fought for her family and faced every challenge with courage, poise, and grace. Our thoughts and prayers are with her entire family, but particularly her children, Cate, Emma Claire, and Jack.”

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Gov. Perdue’s statement on the death of Elizabeth Edwards

RALEIGH – Gov. Bev Perdue today issued the following statement:

“I was saddened to learn of the death of Elizabeth Edwards. North Carolina has lost one of our smartest and most resilient women. My heart goes out to her family.”