Washington, D.C., August 26, 2009 –
Public health lost a great friend and supporter today with the passing of Senator Edward Kennedy.
Sen. Kennedy, who had been battling brain cancer, died late Tuesday night at the age of 77.
Sen. Kennedy leaves behind an unrivaled legacy as one of the longest serving and most successful senators of our time. He worked tirelessly on issues in the public interest, including civil rights, education, voting rights, labor and, of course, health care.
His work on the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions committee has laid the groundwork for the reform of our health system for which Kennedy tirelessly fought and called “the cause of my life.” Without his leadership and guidance, it is doubtful that we would finally be on the brink of enacting health reform after decades of attempts.
We thank Senator Kennedy for his service to this nation and his commitment to improving and protecting health for all Americans.