Reaction is pouring in this morning following the death of Senator Ted Kennedy.
Below is a statement from President Obama, followed by a statement by former President George. H. W. Bush
Statement From President Barack Obama:
Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy.
For five decades, virtually every major piece of legalisation to advance the civil rights, health and economic well being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts.
I valued his wise counsel in the Senate, where, regardless of the swirl of events, he always had time for a new colleague. I cherished his confidence and momentous support in my race for the Presidency. And 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. 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.
And the Kennedy family has lost their patriarch, a tower of strength and support through good times and bad.
Our hearts and prayers out out to them today – – to his wonderful wife Vicki, his children Ted Jr., Patrick and Kara, his grandchildren and his extended family.
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A Statement by former President Bush 41 on the death of Senator Edward Kennedy:
Babara and I were deeply saddened to learn Ted Kennedy lost his valiant battle with cancer. While we didn’t see eye-to-eye on many political issues throughout the years, I always respected his steadfast public service – so much so, in fact, that I invited him to my library in 2003 to receive the Bush Award for Excellence in Public Service. Ted Kennedy was a seminal figure in the United States Senate – a leader who answered the call to duty for some 47 years, and whose death closes a remarkable chapter in that body’s history.
Barbara and I – and all Bushes – send our heartfelt condolences to Victoria, Ted’s kids, and the entire Kennedy family.
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Mary Benton Media 
For the media to attempt to gloss over his despicable character and promote Kennedy as a hero is akin to posthumously promoting Michael Jackson as a champion for the defense of little boys’ virginity.