There are few members of Congress who have earned the respect, affection, and bipartisan admiration than war hero, former POW, and longtime Senator John McCain (R-AZ). Following his heartbreaking announcement about the decision to end treatment for his aggressive brain cancer, his family has been overwhelmed and deeply touched by the outpouring of support and love sent their way from both sides of the aisle.
The entire McCain family is overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from around the world. Thank you.
— Cindy McCain (@cindymccain) August 25, 2018
Political leaders from House Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Speaker of the House Paul Ryan, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, and many others flooded social media following the announcement.
Thinking of John McCain and his family. Throughout his life, Senator McCain has exemplified what it means to serve your country with honor, distinction and pride. He is a true American hero and I feel fortunate to know him and to have the chance to serve with him in Congress.
— Adam Schiff (@RepAdamSchiff) August 25, 2018
Very sad to hear this morning’s update from the family of our dear friend @SenJohnMcCain. We are so fortunate to call him our friend and colleague. John, Cindy, and the entire McCain family are in our prayers at this incredibly difficult hour.
— Leader McConnell (@senatemajldr) August 24, 2018
My thoughts and prayers are with Senator McCain and his family. https://t.co/cqHXdjJntj
— Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) August 24, 2018
John McCain personifies service to our country. The whole House is keeping John and his family in our prayers during this time.
— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) August 24, 2018
Today, we received the sad news of @SenJohnMcCain’s decision. Courageous and heroic as ever. A national treasure. Our love and prayers are with him, Cindy and their family.
— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) August 24, 2018
Twitter users shared some of their fondest memories of the uncompromising, principled, and heroic man who ran against President Obama in 2008 in the presidential elections. Few moments have stood out as an example of principled leadership than McCain’s response to an attendee who had internalized the fear that partisan hacks were spreading against the first black presidential nominee.
When the attendee said she feared Obama because he was an “Arab,” McCain responded:
‘No, ma’am. He’s a decent family man, citizen, that I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues, and that’s what this campaign is all about.’
There is no moment that so exemplifies how vastly different politics have become than that town hall response.
Undoubtedly one of the most memorable John McCain clips.pic.twitter.com/4JZiZf6pg5
— Ricky Davila (@TheRickyDavila) August 24, 2018
His concession speech upon losing the election to Obama was poignant and respectful in tone, as well, and few concession speeches will be remembered quite so fondly.
‘This is an historic election, and I recognize the special significance it has for African Americans and for the special pride that must be theirs tonight. I’ve always believed that America offers opportunities to all who have the industry and will to seize it. Senator Obama believes that, too…Senator Obama has achieved a great thing for himself and for his country.’
From all of us at Bipartisan Report, and from citizens all across the country who vote both red and blue on Election Day, our hearts go out to Senator John McCain and his family.
Featured image via Flickr by Photo Your Space under a Creative Commons license
