WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today issued the following statement on the death of Senator Ted Kennedy (D-MA):

“The Senate has lost the lion’s roar of the left,” Roberts said. “His wife Victoria, his family, friends and staff are in our thoughts and prayers.”

“When I came to the Senate, Senator Kennedy was one of the first to welcome me and invite me to his office to discuss legislation where we might work together and move ahead. I was privileged to work with Senator Kennedy on education, health care and disabled issues.”

“There were two Ted’s, one was personable and kind to those he met regardless of party affiliation, and the other was what we saw on the Senate floor, a passionate and fiery advocate for the cause.”

“I recall one of the first times I had the privilege of serving as presiding officer of the Senate when Senator Kennedy had the floor. His speech was passionate and delivered at top volume. He asked me how much of his time remained. I replied and noted that the audio system was indeed working. He continued on with his speech and after about a minute, smiled at me, waggled his finger in my direction, and kept right on going, at full volume. It was quintessential Ted Kennedy. He will be greatly missed.”

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