Texas reaction: State’s leaders pay tribute,

Sen. John McCain, who was prisoner of war in a Viet- namese camp, served in the U.S. Senate for 32 years and was the Republican Party’s nominee for president in the 2008 election, died Satur- day at his home in Arizona, just over a year after he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer.

McCain’s family announced Friday that he had decided to discontinue treatment for glioblastoma.

Family, friends and politicians shared their condo--

lences. Here is how Texas lawmakers reacted:

McCain “was larger than life. Although he and I some- times disagreed, I was deeply privileged to serve with him and proud to call him a friend.” — U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas

“Some lives are so vivid, it is difficult to imagine them ended. Some voices are so vibrant, it is hard to think of them stilled. John McCain was born to lead. Through- out his military career, his years of cruel imprisonment and torture as a prisoner of war, his decades of ded- icated service in Congress, and his quest as a candidate

for the highest office, his fighting spirit could not be broken. Though he often could have chosen the easier path in life, John McCain would never surrender his love of country. He was an American warrior.” — Texas Gov. Greg Abbott

“John McCain was a man of deep conviction and a patriot of the highest order. He was a public servant in the finest traditions of our country. And to me, he was a friend whom I’ll deeply miss.” — George W. Bush, former Texas governor and 43rd president “As the true example of an American hero, he was

the embodiment of patrio- tism. I know I join the nation in missing his spirit, determination, and love of our armed forces and our nation. Our country is at loss.” — U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Austin

“John McCain, an American patriot, who left his mark — serving our country admi- rably both in uniform and in the Senate. When we disagreed, we could do so agreeably. Even during his waning days, he had the courage to challenge the President and to vote his conscience on health care. Heroism is defined over a lifetime, and his was lived with honor and love of country. Remem- bering this hero tonight as we hope for more public servants with integrity like his. Rest In Peace, Senator, after a life so well lived.” — U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin

“Mourning the loss of Sen- ator John McCain. Grate- ful for his life, and sending strength and love to Cindy and the McCain family.” — U.S. Rep. Beto O’ Rourke, D-El Paso

“We are grateful for his service to our nation and saddened by his passing.” — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton “Senator John McCain was

a hero and a great patriot whose courage and service to our country will continue to inspire us for years to come.” — Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick

“May you rest in peace, Senator John McCain. You are an American hero. I have always admired your willingness to reach across the aisle, work with your colleagues

and stand up for what it is right. Thank you for your service to our country.” — Texas gubernatorial candidate Lupe Valdez