Thanks, Republicans

Republicans across the country are offering very gracious statements on what is a very difficult day for Democrats and progressives, who have lost a great hero in Ted Kennedy. Here's Massachusetts GOP Chair Jennifer Nassour:

I am deeply saddened by the death of Senator Ted Kennedy. He was a tireless champion of the weak and forgotten, and our nation has lost a true statesman and devoted public servant.

For five decades, Senator Kennedy defended the causes of justice and peace on the floor of the US Senate. Today is a day to put politics aside and our great state and country first, and recognize Senator Kennedy's remarkable leadership and service to his constituents of Massachusetts.

As someone who has lost a father and a brother I love, I know Senator Kennedy's passing represents a great loss to his family and friends. I send my condolences to the entire Kennedy family and, on behalf of Republicans of the Commonwealth, we give thanks for his extraordinary life of service.

RNC Chairman Michael Steele:

I am saddened to hear of the passing of Senator Ted Kennedy. My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife Vicki and the entire Kennedy family. For close to five decades, Senator Ted Kennedy followed in his family’s long tradition and served his country with great distinction. His legacy should serve as an inspiration to anyone interested in public service.

Senator John McCain:

My friend, Ted Kennedy, was famous before he was accomplished. But by the end of his life he had become irreplaceable in the institution he loved and in the affections of its members. He grew up in the long shadow of his brothers, but found a way to be useful to his country in ways that will outlast their accomplishments.

John Boehner, the House Minority Leader:

Ted Kennedy was my friend. While there were few political issues on which he and I agreed, our relationship was never disagreeable, and was always marked by good humor, hard work, and a desire to find common ground. Ted Kennedy was also a friend to inner-city children and teachers. For the better part of the last decade, Ted and I worked together to support struggling Catholic grade schools in inner-city Washington. By helping these schools keep their doors open and helping them retain their committed teachers and faculty, this joint effort made a positive difference in the lives of thousands of inner-city children, who otherwise would have been denied the opportunity for a quality education. It wouldn’t have been possible without Senator Kennedy and his genuine desire to give something back to help inner-city students in the city in which he’d served for so many years.

We may not be seeing the same grace in comment threads, but to all the Republicans who are making an effort to shame those who are being disrespectful, thank you. And thanks to all of the Republican leaders who are offering kind words today. They are appreciated.