Upon the passing of Sen. Edward Kennedy, Democratic leaders issued the following statements:

Todd Goodman - Chair, Oklahoma Democratic Party:
"The Oklahoma Democratic Party is mourning the loss of Sen. Edward Kennedy.  Sen. Kennedy was a champion for those less fortunate in our society, and stood as a fierce fighter against poverty and injustice.  A true leader himself, Sen. Kennedy could recognize hope and inspiration in others and encouraged them to step forward and lead.   It burdens many of us that so many of the issues Sen. Kennedy fought for his entire lifetime remain unresolved, and even contentious - including poverty, civil rights and health care.  However, for his memory, we will push forward and, to paraphrase another great American leader, continue his fight for justice everywhere, and against injustice anywhere.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Kennedy family, his colleagues and all those whose lives were touched by this lionhearted leader."

Rep. Ryan Kiesel - D-Seminole:
"This morning, I joined the ranks of those who awoke to the sad news of Senator Kennedy's passing late Tuesday night.  Senator Kennedy is the very emblem of public service and his passing marks a monumental loss for our country. Personally, I will remember being in the audience to see him deliver his speech at the Democratic Convention in 2008, and an opportune and accidental meeting in a stairwell, during the 2000 Democratic Convention. In the coming days, I know I will not be alone in remembering his many accomplishments that touch our lives on a daily basis; from Title IX, lowering the voting age to 18, securing increased civil rights, and of course, the issue of his life, and now the issue of the day: health care.  His commitment to fair process, productive dialogue, and building consensus reflects the best of American political life.  In a Nation of deepening political divides, Senator Kennedy's legacy evinces our ability to reconcile our convictions with our need to seek common ground in the name of progress for all Americans. As one of the many individuals inspired by Senator Kennedy, I remain committed to the idea he lived so eloquently; one person can make a difference."

Rep. Al McAffrey - D-Oklahoma City:
"Today we mourn the loss of a true American patriot; a man who fought for those who could not fight for themselves, gave voice to the voiceless and advocated for the rights of those who did not yet have them. For nearly fifty years Ted Kennedy fought to move our country forward, advocating for a more just, equal and free America. Although I'm deeply saddened by the loss of this great man, I have hope because I know that the ideals, dreams and values Senator Kennedy embodied shall never pass away."

Statement from the Kennedy family | Statement from President Obama