"Like all New Jerseyans and Americans, I am deeply saddened by the passing of Senator Kennedy. On behalf of all of New Jersey I extend condolences to his wife, Vickie, and family. I had the honor of serving with Senator Kennedy.  I was mentored and inspired by his leadership and friendship.  He was an extraordinary senator for 47 years, leaving an unmatched legacy of contributions, especially on healthcare, to all Americans.  He will be truly missed, but his dreams will never die.

"While we might be tempted to regret that Senator Kennedy did not live to see universal health care - the ‘cause of my life' he called it - we should all rejoice in all of the great, enormous good that Senator Kennedy accomplished while he was here with us, and honor his memory by redoubling our commitment to making that cause a reality now, this year, in 2009."

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