In the News

Arkansas political delegation reacts to passing of former President George H.W. Bush

By KATV


President Clinton and Secretary Clinton

Hillary and I mourn the passing of President George H.W. Bush, and give thanks for his great long life of service, love, and friendship.

I will be forever grateful for the friendship we formed. From the moment I met him as a young governor invited to his home in Kennebunkport, I was struck by the kindness he showed to Chelsea, by his innate and genuine decency, and by his devotion to Barbara, his children, and their growing brood.

Few Americans have been—or will ever be—able to match President Bush’s record of service to the United States and the joy he took every day from it; from his military service in World War II, to his work in Congress, the United Nations, China, the Central Intelligence Agency, the Vice Presidency and the Presidency, where he worked to move the post Cold War world toward greater unity, peace, and freedom.

He never stopped serving. I saw it up close, working with him on tsunami relief in Asia and here at home after Hurricane Katrina. His remarkable leadership and great heart were always on full display.

I am profoundly grateful for every minute I spent with President Bush and will always hold our friendship as one of my life’s greatest gifts.

Our hearts and prayers are with George, Jeb, Neil, Marvin, Doro, their families, and the entire Bush clan.

Governor Asa Hutchinson

“Last night the world witnessed the passing of someone we all considered our friend. It was always the personal touch of George H.W. Bush with so many Americans. I remember the notes he would write after a campaign visit to Arkansas in 1986; the hug he gave to encourage me and others after his defeat for a second term; the patriotic tears he might shed when he learned of the sacrifice and courage of our soldiers; and the love he always had for his family. All Americans can identify with the heart of a man we watched serve our country from WWII to the liberation of Kuwait. Susan and I will be remembering the Bush family as we all reflect on a friend and great American patriot."

Attorney General Leslie Rutledge



“Today, Americans mourn the loss of a great warrior and public servant,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “President George H.W. Bush was dedicated to serving all Americans throughout his career, but most importantly he was a beloved family man. I am sending prayers of comfort to the entire Bush family and as Americans, we mourn a great man.”



Congressman French Hill

“It’s with heavy hearts that Martha and I mourn the passing of a loyal friend, mentor, and faithful servant, President George H.W. Bush. We lift up the Bush family during this time of grieving and honor the remarkable life and legacy of a strong leader and diplomat, a great father, and an American patriot.

“In our early careers, we treasured working for him on his campaigns and the humbling responsibility of serving on his White House staff. We were grateful for his daily example of goofy humor, courtesy, friendship, and passion for writing handwritten thank-you notes. Truly, President George H.W. Bush and Mrs. Bush were the ideal neighbors, members of the PTA, and the answer to the question on that common form at school or work, ‘in case of emergency, please call...’

“We loved him very much.”



U.S. Senator John Boozman

“George H.W. Bush was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and public servant who spent a lifetime answering his nation’s call to service. His love of country and example of faithful civic duty are standards we should all strive to meet. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to serve the same great cause.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Bush family, friends and our country as we remember this great American leader.”



DPA Chair Michael John Gray 

"The passing of our former President reminds us of so much which is essential to the American fabric. His life was defined by his commitment to our nation, his family, and God. Through his life we can capture glimpses of America's great story. He was a hero in the Pacific during World War II, a devoted family man, and a champion of our better angels as President. He saw the goodness in our people, as if a thousand points of light were spread across the nation. His example of service and the value of decency shine brighter than ever."