Florida and national figures from across the political spectrum reacted to the death of former U.S. Sen. and Gov. Bob Graham, who died on Tuesday evening. The longtime Florida leader was celebrated as a statesman respected in all quarters.
— Former Gov. Jeb Bush: "Florida and our country has lost a great public servant. Bob Graham served Floridians with a servant's heart, with integrity and with civility. Columba and I are praying for the Graham family."
— Former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi: "It was with the deepest respect and sadness that I learned of the passing of Senator Bob Graham: a patriotic American and a great Member of the United States Senate. Paul and I extend our sympathy to his entire family, with gratitude for his distinguished public service."
— State Senate Democratic Leader Lauren Book: "Bob Graham was many things — Governor, Senator, father, husband, statesman, a lifelong friend, and so much more. Above all else, Bob Graham was a kind and decent human being who, through his signature work days and policy platforms, uplifted the plight of everyday working people. Florida would be better off if there were more like Governor Graham. His servant leadership — and friendship — will be greatly missed."
— State Sen. Shevrin Jones, a Miami Gardens Democrat: "In times of loss, we remember a giant among us. Bob Graham was not just a Governor or a U.S. Senator; he was a beacon of leadership and a devoted family man. His legacy of compassion and dedication will endure. We express our gratitude to Senator Graham for the path he has forged for countless others. May his soul find eternal peace."
— Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan: "Bob Graham was Florida's Governor when I was a cub reporter covering the Florida Legislature right out of college. He made me feel at ease and always remembered me by name. It's how he treated everyone. Godspeed to a great man."
— State Senate candidate and former state Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith, an Orlando Democrat: "Bob Graham set the bar for public service in Florida and was an inspiration for future generations. Thank you, Governor (and Senator) Graham, for showing the way. My condolences to Gwen Graham and the entire family."
— Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried: "Bob Graham exemplified what it meant to be a servant of the people. He gave everything he had to the people of our great state and boy did he love our state with all of his heart and all of his being. Growing up in Miami it was the first political name I learned as he was beloved by all. His love for our state may have only been matched by his love for his Florida Gators. The photos and legacy of his leadership at UF and Florida Blue Key are enshrined in the halls and passed on to generations. We all should strive to be the type of person Bob Graham was who gave selflessly and lived life fully. Bob, you will be missed, but your impact on this state and many of us lives on. Adele and Gwen, the people of our state owe you a debt of gratitude for sharing Bob with us for all these years and our hearts are with you and the family. Rest in Power and Go Gators!"
— Steve Schale, Democratic consultant: "Bob Graham's last statewide poll … after nearly 40 years in public life. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: 'Bob Graham is honest and a man of integrity.' Agree: 67% Disagree: 9%. There will never be another."
— Rick Wilson, The Lincoln Project co-founder: "RIP Governor Bob Graham. In the history of Florida, you will find few men who governed and led with such grace, honor, and dignity. He knew and loved this state and its people like no other. We will not see his like again. A tremendous loss. Our condolences go out to Gwen Graham and the Graham family."
— Dan Gelber, former Miami Beach Mayor: "I loved that he was an unapologetic wonk, but also empathetic, inquisitive and entirely original. How lucky were we to have Bob Graham dedicate an entire lifetime of remarkable service to our State. There will not be another like him. He was Mr. Florida and will be missed."
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