Brown and Blair lead Kennedy tributes
By Ian Dunt
Gordon Brown and Tony Blair have led British tributes to Senator Edward Kennedy, the legendary Democrat politician, who died of a brain tumour overnight.
The brother of former president John F Kennedy was in some respects the face of liberal America for decades, earning himself seven re-elections.
Mr Brown said the senator would be mourned not just in America “but in every continent”.
He added: “Even facing illness and death, he never stopped fighting for the causes which were his life’s work. I am proud to have counted him as a friend.”
Former prime minister Mr Blair reiterated the sentiment, saying: “Senator Kennedy was a figure who inspired admiration, respect and devotion, not just in America but around the world.
“He was a true public servant committed to the values of fairness, justice and opportunity.
“I saw his focus and determination first hand in Northern Ireland where his passionate commitment was matched with a practical understanding of what needed to be done to bring about peace and to sustain it. I was delighted he could join us in Belfast the day devolved government was restored,” he continued.
“My thoughts and prayers today are with all his family and friends as they reflect on the loss of a great and good man.”
The senator never managed to launch a campaign for the White House, but his political power was undiminished into his later years. His decision to support Barack Obama over Hillary Clinton for the democratic nomination was seen as a key moment in the campaign.
The Kennedy family announced the death in the early hours of this morning.
“Edward M. Kennedy, the husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle we loved so deeply, died late Tuesday night at home in Hyannis Port [Massachusetts],” a statement read.
“We’ve lost the irreplaceable centre 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.”
This morning, President Obama described him as “the greatest United States Senator of our time”.
“For five decades, virtually every major piece of legislation to advance the civil rights, health and economic well being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts,” he added.
Mr Kennedy was the first of his four brothers to die of natural causes. One was killed in an air crash during the second world war, while JFK and Robert Kennedy were both assassinated.
He was not without incident himself, however. A car crash in 1969 saw him cleared of wrongdoing after the passenger travelling with him died. His decision to leave the scene and wait overnight before informing the authorities left a suspicion around the events which eventually derailed his presidential ambitions.
He nevertheless forged a hugely successful career as a leading advocate for the poor and disadvantaged, particularly in the areas of healthcare and education.
