Reactions To Hatfield's Death

Capitol Currents:

Reactions to Hatfield's death are flowing in. Here's a sampling:Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber:"No one has had a more profound impact on Oregon in the last half century than Mark Hatfield. We've lost a true statesman whose legacy lives on in his countless contributions to Oregon's quality of life. Senator Hatfield's moral compass, independence and willingness to reach across the aisle are an inspiration to me and countless Oregonians."Oregon GOP chair Allen Alley:“The entire state is saddened to hear of the passing of Mark O. Hatfield, a quintessential Oregonian and a true national statesman. In his exemplary career as Republican U.S. Senator, Governor, Secretary of State and State Representative, he will be remembered for his courage and conscience in a life of public service for the people of Oregon and the country. In five decades of service, Mark Hatfield rose to be the ‘greatest generation’s’ greatest Oregon leader. He set a high standard for personal conduct, leadership and ability to work across party lines to solve problems and find balanced solutions. The Oregon Republican Party and all Oregonians mourn the loss of this Oregon statesman. We offer our condolences to Antoinette and members of the Hatfield family.”U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley:“I am deeply saddened to hear about Senator Hatfield’s death. Senator Hatfield took courageous positions of conscience -- from opposing the Vietnam War to advocating for the abolition of the death penalty – in the face of substantial political opposition. He inspired many to public service, encouraging them to work to do what is right rather than what is convenient or popular. Senator Hatfield played an enormous role in making Oregon what it is today. His hands were at work in the development of so many institutions we treasure as Oregonians, from the Oregon Health and Sciences University, to the Mark Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, to the Opal Creek Wilderness, to name just a few. He should also be remembered, in this age of bitter partisanship, for his bipartisan and gracious diplomacy. I have greatly admired Senator Hatfield since I had the chance to be one of the hundreds of interns he hosted over his decades of public service. Tonight, a great man has passed from among us and we will miss him greatly. Mary and I will be holding his wife and partner Antoinette and his family in our prayers."OHSU President Joe Robertson:"Sen. Hatfield was a man of conviction and vision who left his mark on many of us here at Oregon Health & Science University. He led the charge to fund medical research and helped transform OHSU into a leading health and science university. The School of Nursing, the Vollum Institute for Biomedical Research, the Hatfield Research Center and the skybridge that links OHSU with the Veterans Affairs Medical Center are all examples of investments he championed that have brought healing, teaching, discovery and outreach together at OHSU. We will miss his wisdom and courage."State lawmakers have been weighing in on Twitter this evening:Rep. Jefferson Smith: "From one of many Oregonians, thank you Mark O Hatfield."Rep. Shawn Lindsey: "Amanda and I extend our condolences to the family of Sen. Mark Hatfield. He led by example, something that we should all try to emulate."Rep. Jules Bailey: "Today we lost one of the greatest Oregonians. Mark Hatfield defined what it means to be a statesman. His legacy will shape Oregon forever."Rep. Julie Parrish: "Our sincerest condolences to the Hatfield family on the loss of a great Oregonian....His brand of statemanship could use a comeback in our country!"Treasurer Ted Wheeler: "Mark Hatfield, a giant in Oregon politics and old family friend, passed tonight. God bless."

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