‘A good voice for Arizona’: Well-wishers react to news
From the world of politics to sports, tributes and prayers poured in for Arizona Sen. John McCain following news of his brain-cancer diagnosis on Wednesday.
Like many, Gov. Doug Ducey called the six-term senator, Republican presidential nominee and Vietnam War veteran an “American hero.”
Across the political spectrum, Republicans and Democrats agreed that McCain has brought grit and patriotism to his post.
Former President George H.W. Bush expected McCain to bring his characteristic toughness to his latest bout with cancer.
“The Hanoi Hilton couldn’t break John McCain’s spirit many years ago, so Barbara and I know — with confidence — he and his family will meet this latest battle in his singular life of service with courage and determination.”
Former President Barack Obama, who battled McCain for the White House in 2008, praised his former opponent as “one of the bravest fighters I’ve ever known.”
Hillary Clinton, the former Democratic presidential nominee, called McCain “as tough as they come.”
McCain’s diagnosis drew swift reaction from Arizona’s elected officials and others who have followed his career.
“Senator John McCain is one of the bravest men I know — a hero, a warrior, and a survivor. He survived the Vietnam war after being shot down then held as a prisoner of war for five and a half years. I am confident he will defeat this foe as well,” U.S. Rep. Martha McSally said in a statement.
He “has been a personal mentor for me. I have been honored to serve alongside him in the Arizona delegation in Congress and I look forward to continuing to do so,” McSally said.
U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I., the ranking member on the Senate Armed Services Committee that McCain chairs, praised McCain as a statesman.
“He never gives up and will face cancer with the same indomitable spirit that has always carried him through. I am praying for him and hope he returns to action soon,” Reed said.
U.S. Rep. Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz., called McCain a “truth-teller.”
“John McCain is a national hero who has survived war, captivity, three rounds of cancer, and more,” she said. “If anyone can fight back against a horrible cancer like this, it’s John McCain. His voice is so critical in Washington today; a truth-teller who doesn’t care where the chips fall. He is a fighter, and we stand in this fight with him.”
“My deepest thoughts and prayers are with Senator McCain,” said U.S. Rep. Paul Gosar, R-Ariz. “He’s a public servant and an American hero. He’s a fighter, and we wish him the absolute best.”
U.S. Rep. Trent Franks, R-Ariz., offered his prayers for his colleague:
“I have just learned about my friend John McCain’s diagnosis of brain cancer. I pray for his health, his spirit and his family tonight. May God have His loving hand upon them all. John McCain is an American hero and possesses such great strength and courage. He has exhibited those qualities his whole life and I have no doubt he will continue to inspire us all in this next fight.”
U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., said he and his wife were also praying.
“I have been amazed by his energy and vigor for serving his country over the years, and the sacrifices he made for this nation are unmatched. I hope to see him back on Capitol Hill soon, and I know that he will fight this diagnosis with every ounce of strength he has within him.”
U.S. Rep. Raúl Grijalva, D-Ariz., said McCain provides needed “equilibrium and balance” to the Senate.
“He’s been a good voice for Arizona,” Grijalva said. “I hope he’s able to return to his role in the Senate because it’s an important role. Some level of independence is needed in the Senate, especially with everything that’s going on.”
“Sen. McCain has dedicated his entire life to serving our nation with honor. Tonight I ask that we join together to keep him and his family in our thoughts and prayers,” said U.S. Rep. Tom O’Halleran, D-Ariz.
“I’m heartbroken,” said consultant Max Fose, who started working with McCain’s campaigns in 1993. “When I heard about this, I cried.”
Former Arizona Sen. Dennis DeConcini, a Democrat who frequently battled McCain during his tenure in Washington, called the news “a very sad situation.”
“McCain has served his country exceptionally well. He and I have had our disagreements over the years, but I’ve always respected him.”
Republic reporters Yvonne Wingett Sanchez, Dan Nowicki, Nick Piecoro, Kent Somers, Sarah McLellan and Scott Bordow contributed to this article.