Friends, allies, and former rivals of Joseph I. Lieberman, who passed away on Wednesday, shared their condolences and admiration for the four-term senator from Connecticut, who was once a prominent figure in the Democratic Party.
Mr. Lieberman, who served as Al Gore’s running mate in the 2000 presidential election, continued to play a significant role in politics even after his defeat in that race. He was the crucial Senate vote that led to the passage of the Affordable Care Act, allowing him to veto certain provisions like a public health insurance option.
He also assisted the centrist organization No Labels in identifying a potential presidential candidate for 2024.
“Senator Lieberman leaves a void that cannot be filled,” the group stated. “However, we are privileged to have known him, and we hope his family can find solace in the challenging days ahead, knowing the profound impact he had.”
Mr. Gore, the former vice president who selected Mr. Lieberman as his running mate in the 2000 election, expressed that it was an honor to campaign alongside him.
He added, “I will always be grateful for his relentless efforts to create a better future for America.”
Mr. Gore continued, “He was a truly exceptional leader, whose amiable demeanor and strong determination made him a formidable force. It was no surprise to any of us who knew him when he would start singing his favorite song: Frank Sinatra’s ‘My Way.’ And doing things Joe’s way always meant prioritizing his country and the values of equality and fairness.”
Former President George W. Bush, who, along with Dick Cheney, defeated the Gore-Lieberman ticket in 2000, remarked, “In victory and defeat, Joe Lieberman was always a gentleman. I appreciate Joe’s principled service to our country and the dignity and patriotism he brought to public life.”
Mr. Bush added, “Joe was a remarkable American and one of the kindest individuals I encountered during my time in Washington.”
Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, who had a close bond with Mr. Lieberman and Senator John McCain of Arizona, referred to themselves as “the three amigos,” expressed deep sadness upon hearing of Mr. Lieberman’s passing.
“The comforting news is that he is in the hands of a loving God,” Mr. Graham stated. “The unfortunate news is that John McCain is probably giving him an earful about how messed up things are.” Mr. Graham signed his statement as “the Last Amigo.”
Mr. Lieberman cast the pivotal 60th vote to pass the Affordable Care Act in 2010, a significant accomplishment of President Barack Obama’s administration. “Joe Lieberman and I didn’t always see eye-to-eye,” Mr. Obama remarked in a statement, “but he had an exceptional career in public service, including four decades devoted to advocating for the people of Connecticut.”
Former Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey, who had conversations with Mr. Lieberman regarding a potential presidential run on the No Labels platform, extended his condolences shortly after publicly declining the group’s offer. Mr. Lieberman was the founding chairman of the centrist organization and had recently served as its co-chairman.
“I am saddened by his loss as a friend and as a role model for how to conduct oneself in public life,” Mr. Christie stated, adding that “the nation is enriched by his example and diminished today without his courageous leadership.”
