Bipartisan praise pours in after Ginsburg’s death

News of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s death Friday evening was met with an outpouring of tributes from figures across the political spectrum as the country reeled from the passing of one of its most beloved public officials.

Democratic and Republican leaders in the House and Senate honored Ginsburg’s dedication to public service and her status as a trailblazer for women, with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) ordering flags at the Capitol to be flown at half-staff.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) called the death “devastating” and praised Ginsburg as an “icon.”

“Justice Ginsburg embodied justice, brilliance and goodness, and her passing is an incalculable loss for our democracy and for all who sacrifice and strive to build a better future for our children,” she said in a statement.

Pelosi’s counterpart in the Senate, Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), called Ginsburg “a giant in American history, a champion for justice, a trailblazer for women.”

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) praised Ginsburg’s service on the court and indicated he intends to consider President Trump’s nominee to fill her vacancy.

“Justice Ginsburg was thoroughly dedicated to the legal profession and to her 27 years of service on the Supreme Court. Her intelligence and determination earned her respect and admiration throughout the legal world, and indeed throughout the entire nation, which now grieves alongside her family, friends, and colleagues,” he said in a statement.

“Americans reelected our majority in 2016 and expanded it in 2018 because we pledged to work with President Trump and support his agenda, particularly his outstanding appointments to the federal judiciary. Once again, we will keep our promise,” he added. “President Trump’s nominee will receive a vote on the floor of the United States Senate.”

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), a close ally of President Trump, said that while he had many disagreements with Ginsburg’s “legal philosophy,” he appreciated her service. He also called her a “trailblazer.”

It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Justice Ginsburg.

Justice Ginsburg was a trailblazer who possessed tremendous passion for her causes. She served with honor and distinction as a member of the Supreme Court.

— Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) September 19, 2020

Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) tweeted: “I pray that the same force of principles to which Justice Ginsburg held herself will help guide the leaders of this country.”

Rest in peace, Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

I pray that the same force of principles to which Justice Ginsburg held herself will help guide the leaders of this country. pic.twitter.com/zmsxKV3Fse

— Sherrod Brown (@SenSherrodBrown) September 19, 2020

Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) noted he had judicial differences with Ginsburg, but praised her as a “titan” of the Supreme Court.

“Her unwavering commitment to public service has inspired a generation of young Americans – particularly women – to reach for their dreams,” he tweeted.

Her unwavering commitment to public service has inspired a generation of young Americans – particularly women – to reach for their dreams.

As our country mourns this loss, Sandy and I send our condolences to her children, Jane and James, and the entire Ginsburg family.

— Senator John Cornyn (@JohnCornyn) September 19, 2020

Eric Trump, one of President Trump’s sons, also weighed in, calling her “a remarkable woman.”

Justice Ginsburg was a remarkable woman with an astonishing work ethic. She was a warrior with true conviction and she has my absolute respect! #RIP

— Eric Trump (@EricTrump) September 19, 2020

Democratic presidential candidates, including Pete Buttigieg, Sen. Cory Booker (N.J.) and former Rep. Beto O’Rourke (Texas), also released statements praising her.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a titan of justice. Her jurisprudence expanded the rights of all Americans, shaping our lives for the better. And her example now shines within the history of our country, there to inspire generations. pic.twitter.com/GffcMQivDx

— Pete Buttigieg (@PeteButtigieg) September 18, 2020

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in her statement said Ginsburg “paved the way for so many women, including me. There will never be another like her.”

Justice Ginsburg paved the way for so many women, including me. There will never be another like her. Thank you RBG.

— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) September 19, 2020