Flood of reaction seen over the passing of former President George H.W. Bush

"My deepest condolences go out to the Bush family, and I join our nation in mourning the passing of George H.W. Bush.

The former president was a heroic veteran, accomplished statesman, and lifelong public servant whose sense of duty and devotion to our country stands as a shining example for all.

He lived a remarkable life, and our nation is stronger today because of him. I am grateful for his contributions to society and will keep his loved ones in my prayers. May he rest in peace."

“Today, we mourn the loss of an American patriot and public servant. George H.W. Bush paired his profound sense of personal responsibility with honesty, gentility, and hard work.

In his inaugural address, he said that great nations, like great men, must keep their word. He stated that the American people did not send politicians to Washington to bicker. The American people ask their leaders to rise above the merely partisan. Throughout his life and career, President Bush embodied that sense of duty and commitment to bettering our country – whether it was fighting for Americans with disabilities, ensuring clear air for future generations, or bringing a peaceful end to the Cold War.

President Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush showed us that character and integrity must never become casualties of partisan politics. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Bush family and their friends as they mourn his passing and celebrate his historic life and legacy.”

President George Herbert Walker Bush, naval aviator, decorated in his youth for valor in combat, took his experience in war to build a better world as our commander in chief. His service to our nation demonstrated how we as a people can draw on our humility, diversity and devotion to our country to meet every challenge with fortitude and confidence. We will miss him, but at the going down of the day, his example will long guide our Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen and Marines for how to live life without regret.

“Throughout his life, George H.W. Bush fought for freedom and prosperity for all Americans. From his service in World War II as a naval aviator to his efforts organizing international disaster relief, the nation and world will never forget his years of public service.”

“So sorry to hear of the death of President George Herbert Walker Bush. In 1988, I cast my first vote for President for him. I am proud of that vote today.  He was a true gentleman and our country is better because of his service. Tonette and I send our love and prayers to the Bush family as America mourns the loss of one of our greatest patriots.”

 “Today we mourn the loss of a leader who has long-served as a shining example of selfless leadership and compassion.  George H. Bush held a steadfast belief in a greater calling, underlined by his service to our country as a World War II hero, public servant, elected official and through countless philanthropic efforts.  There was President Bush—a man of great character that our nation truly admired and also the George Bush whom was genuine, sincere and quick-witted that I was fortunate to call a friend.  The loss of George H. Bush weighs heavy, may the example he set inspire tomorrow’s leaders.”

“I join the nation in recognizing the life and legacy of President George H.W. Bush. In learning of the letter that Bush left for Bill Clinton after the hard fought 1992 presidential election, I was so moved by him telling Clinton that “Your success is now our country’s success. I am rooting hard for you.” It is at once both a reminder of how political discourse and campaigns have changed, as well as the way things are supposed to be.”

“I did not agree with many of the policies of the 41st President, including his vote against the 1990 Civil Rights Bill and the racially charged use of the Willie Horton ad. However, when given a choice to serve his country or serve himself, he chose country every time.”