The pols pay their respects to Murtha

Elected officials and political candidates were quick to offer their words of condolence, mourning and remembrance after the passing of Congressman John “Jack” Murtha (D-12) on Monday.

Here is just a sampling of their statements.

Gov. Ed Rendell:

“Pennsylvania has lost one of its greatest citizens. Congressman Murtha impacted the entire state, not just his congressional district, in ways that almost no individual has. He did so much for so many of us throughout the commonwealth. He was also the best friend and supporter of our military and the men and women who risk their lives for our country. He worked tirelessly to ensure that our military had the resources it needed to do its job effectively and that our service men and women had every piece of equipment necessary to protect them. He had the courage and integrity to make sure the military was on the right track and he was not afraid to raise questions. He will be sorely missed by every citizen of the commonwealth. Midge and I extend our deepest sympathy and support to the Murtha family.”

Congressman Paul Kanjorski (D-11):

“Jack was a friend and colleague who I have looked up to throughout my time in Congress for his dedication to our country and our military troops, his strength to work in a bipartisan way, and his passion for his work and the Pennsylvanians he represented. Throughout his career in public service, Jack has been a symbol of the hardworking Pennsylvanians through the Commonwealth. While prone to criticism in Washington for his knack for securing federal funding for his Congressional district, that federal funding helped create thousands of jobs for Pennsylvanians and aided with needed economic development in his district. He was elected to help his district, which is exactly why we, as Members of Congress, are all elected. Jack was able to effectively balance the needs of his constituents with the needs of the country. The legacy that he has left will surely live on as a symbol of the great work that one man can do and as something that we can all strive to achieve. As the leader of the Pennsylvania Congressional delegation, and as a close friend, he will be sorely missed.”

Hazleton Mayor Lou Barletta, Republican candidate in the 11th Congressional District:

“Congressman Jack Murtha was a hero for his nation on the battlefield and a tenacious advocate for his constituents in the halls of Congress. Pennsylvania has lost one of her sons but his legacy will live on for generations to come. My wife Mary Grace and I send our most heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”

Senator Arlen Specter:

“I am deeply saddened to lose my dear friend and colleague Jack Murtha. He was a public servant in every sense of the word and his passing is a great loss to all of Pennsylvania. Joan and my thoughts are with his wife, Joyce, and their children.”

Republican Senate candidate Pat Toomey:

“Jack served his country in uniform and in Congress for many years, and his service will long be remembered and appreciated by the people of Pennsylvania.”

Montgomery County Commissioner Joe Hoeffel, Democratic candidate for governor:

“John Murtha served our country and Pennsylvania with great honor and distinction. Few men or women have served in the halls of Congress and earned more respect than John Murtha. From his heroic duty in Vietnam to being the longest-serving Pennsylvanian in Congress, John Murtha lived a full and heroic life. I will always consider myself extremely fortunate to have served with him for six years, and for having the opportunity to learn from him during our many hours in Pennsylvania Corner on the House floor.”

Scranton Mayor Chris Doherty, Democratic candidate for governor:

“Pennsylvania lost one of its giants today. Congressman Murtha was one of the last great titans of the United States Congress who had the experience and the record of accomplishment to earn the respect of both the most conservative and progressive of his colleagues. From his heroism on the battlefield to his fierce advocacy for his constituents, Congressman Murtha never backed away from a fight. He had a firm sense of what he wanted to accomplish, and he refused to let anything stand in his way. We will miss his representation in Congress and his friendship here at home. My thoughts and prayers and those of my entire family go out to Congressman Murtha’s friends and relatives on this very sad day.”

February 8, 2010 at 6:49 pm

--pa2010.com Staff

Tags: John Murtha, PA-12