‘Hero representing best US ideals’: Politicians & public figures praise McCain’s legacy
Despite being pre-emptively ‘disinvited’ by McCain from his funeral, Donald Trump has expressed his condolences, joining a long list of US politicians praising the late John McCain’s patriotism, heroism and high morals.
“Our hearts and prayers are with you!” Trump tweeted after McCain's family announced the senator's death. Recalling John McCain's six-decade service to the nation, many US politicians called the Republican a true “patriot” and a “war hero.” Others noted the 81-year-olds "dignity" and "values" that were cherished by all Americans.
‘Patriot or warmonger?’ McCain’s track record comes under public scrutiny
"We have lost a man who steadfastly represented the best ideals of our country," Defense Secretary James Mattis said in a statement.
My deepest sympathies and respect go out to the family of Senator John McCain. Our hearts and prayers are with you!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 26, 2018
Remembering John McCain, a brave warrior for human rights who stood up against repression and torture.
— George Soros (@georgesoros) August 26, 2018
Tonight is a sad night for all Americans. John McCain was a patriot and a war hero. He fought for our Nation, on the battlefield and in Congress, and America will forever be grateful for his courage and sacrifice. My prayers are with the McCain family this evening.
— Rep. Bruce Poliquin (@RepPoliquin) August 26, 2018
Sen. Bernie Sanders also called McCain his "friend" and an "American" hero", noting the politician's "decency and honor." "He will be missed not just in the U.S. Senate but by all Americans who respect integrity and independence," the Vermont senator said.
John McCain was an American hero, a man of decency and honor and a friend of mine. He will be missed not just in the U.S. Senate but by all Americans who respect integrity and independence. Jane and I send our deepest condolences to his family.
— Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) August 26, 2018
Republican Party chair Ronna McDaniel noted that McCain was a strong supporter of American leadership in the world, as well as a "tireless champion of our nation’s troops and veterans."
John McCain was a true patriot who dedicated his life to serving his country. He was an advocate for American leadership in the world and a tireless champion of our nation’s troops and veterans. Our prayers are with the entire McCain family.
— Ronna McDaniel (@GOPChairwoman) August 26, 2018
The US lost "one its most distinguished men of gallantry," former National Security Advisor Colin Powell noted. The retired four-star general and a long time friend of the Senator highlighted McCain's toughness, demonstrated when he was a prisoner of war in Vietnam.
Think your friends would be interested? Share this story!
