Kingston, NY - Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) today issued the following statement on the passing of U.S. Senator Edward M. Kennedy.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the Kennedy family on this day of mourning. I have had great respect and appreciation for the enormous contributions this family has made to our country and the world. John F. Kennedy was the first president for whom I voted in 1960 after I became old enough to vote. In 1980, I supported Senator Kennedy's candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination. And for the last 17 years, I have had the privilege to work cooperatively with this extraordinarily understanding and deeply focused senator.

"Our nation has lost a true hero today, but Senator Kennedy's legacy will live on and continue to be an inspiration for generations to come.  It's a loss not just for the people of Massachusetts, but for all Americans and people across the world who have benefited from the enormous contributions Senator Kennedy has made on behalf of social and economic justice."