Obama mourns Kennedy, greatest senator of our time

[babylonsister]

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5h8QZyWPtFg8wPa33JE9Z6eri3ZtgD9AAK9QO1

Obama mourns Kennedy, greatest senator of our time

By GLEN JOHNSON and PHILLIP ELLIOTT (AP) – 23 minutes ago


CHILMARK, Mass. — A grieving President Barack Obama paid tribute to Sen. Edward M. Kennedy Wednesday, calling him a colleague, counselor and friend who etched his place in history as a "singular figure" on the American political landscape.

"Even though we knew this day was coming, we awaited it with no small amout of dread," Obama said."For his family, he was a guardian. For America, he was a defender of a dream."

snip//

"I cherished his confidence and momentous support in my race for the presidency," Obama had said earlier in a written statement.

Obama pointed out many people — seniors, children, families — whose lives have been improved by Kennedy's work on key legislation, saying many can now "pursue their dreams in an America that is more equal and more just, including myself" because of him.

"The outpouring of love, gratitude and fond memories to which we've all borne witness is a testament to the way this singular figure in American history touched so many lives," the president said.

Kennedy had been away from the Senate for much of this year, leading to speculation about the impact of his absence on Obama's health care proposals. Still, Obama said, "even as he waged a valiant struggle with a mortal illness, I've profited as president from his encouragement and wisdom."

"An important chapter in our history has come to an end," Obama said. "Our country has lost a great leader, who picked up the torch of his fallen brothers and became the greatest United States Senator of our time."

[jaxx]

1. I just read the WaPo story of Senator Kennedy's death

and now this has made me cry again. We the people have lost a champion for our cause and he will be missed.