COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Reaction to the death of Ernest F. “Fritz” Hollings, a longtime South Carolina governor and U.S. senator who died Saturday at the age of 97:
“I was saddened to learn of the passing of my friend and former colleague Senator Fritz Hollings. Fritz was a fixture in the Senate for nearly four decades. His cutting wit, unflagging passion, and plainspoken nature made serving alongside him an unforgettable experience. His strong convictions and even stronger personality made Fritz a powerful advocate for the people of South Carolina. The Senate stands with them, and especially with the entire Hollings family, in prayer and in gratitude for a life so fully lived.” -U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky.
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“Fritz Hollings was a good man. A patriot who fought for this country in uniform and elected office. A friend who lifted me up when it mattered the most early in my career, and taught, as he’s done for generations of South Carolinians, how to live a life of purpose and service. Now rest peacefully, friend, once again with your beloved Peatsy.” — Former Vice President Joe Biden.
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“One of South Carolina’s greatest lions roars no more. Fierce, bold, and robust – the sounds of Fritz Hollings’ vision and drive for the Palmetto State will continue to be heard by generations. The greatness and success of this state has benefited from the hand of his leadership. Peggy and I are heartened at his reunion with Peatsy and offer our prayers and condolences to the family.” — South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster
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“From his time as a (soldier) in World War Two, to shepherding peaceful desegregation as Governor, or fighting for the American worker in the United States Senate, Fritz Hollings was a statesman who never lost his love for the Lowcountry, for South Carolina, and for his wife — Peatsy. I join the people of South Carolina in praying for the Hollings Family as we celebrate his lifetime of public service.” U.S. Sen Tim Scott of South Carolina
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“By any measure Senator Hollings led one of the most incredible and consequential lives of any member of the Greatest Generation. Like so many Citadel graduates, he served in combat in World War II and was willing to die for his country. With his passing, South Carolina has lost one of her greatest champions and most effective political leaders. … As the junior senator from South Carolina, he welcomed me to the Senate and helped me get established. And until his dying day, Fritz Hollings was always advocating and urging for policies that would make our country strong. When it comes to Senator Hollings, they broke the mold.” — U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina
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“America has lost a one of a kind statesman. Fritz Hollings was an astute politician who was motivated by service. He was truly devoted to advancing the cause of our democracy and bettering the lives (of) all Americans. … He was a man with courage and conviction, who began his career protecting the status quo but changed as he learned and grew. In requesting the removal of his name from the federal courthouse in Charleston so it could bear the name of Judge Waites Waring, Fritz demonstrated that his service was not about himself but about creating an America that strives to be a more perfect union.” — U.S. House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn of South Carolina
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“Today, we lost the most transformational leader our state has ever seen. From his service as a soldier in World War II, a state legislator, Lieutenant Governor, Governor, and U.S. Senator, Fritz Hollings was a true statesman who exemplified character, courage, integrity, and honor. We are all better off because of his life and service to our nation, state and the Lowcountry. Amanda and I send our sincerest condolences to the Hollings family and all who knew him. It is a blessing to know he and his beloved Peatsy are finally together again, forever.” — U.S. Rep. Joe Cunningham of South Carolina
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“Senator Hollings dedicated his life in service to his state and his country. Whether he was serving his country as an artillery officer during WWII, or fighting on behalf of his constituents in the halls of the United States Senate, Senator Hollings was the embodiment of a true public servant. His legacy will continue to be felt for generations to come. Melody and I send our prayers and condolences to his family, as well as our appreciation for his years of service towards improving the lives of all South Carolinians.” — U.S. Rep. Jeff Duncan of South Carolina
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“I am deeply saddened this morning to hear of the passing of US Senator Fritz Hollings — a great man, dedicated public servant, and dear friend of mine. His passion for helping others and commitment to South Carolina will be the foundation of his legacy. Senator Hollings was a force to be reckoned with in Washington, stuck true to his convictions no matter the consequences, and never stopped fighting to make the world a better place. From his fiery presence on the floor of the US Senate, to his days spent talking with fellow South Carolinians on the beaches of the Lowcountry, there was never any doubt that Senator Hollings loved what he did. South Carolina has lost a true statesman, and I hope you will all join me in praying for the Hollings family during this time. Thank you for your life of service, Senator. You are missed.” — South Carolina Senate Minority Leader Nikki Setzler
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“I’m saddened by the passing of a giant of South Carolina. Fritz Hollings defined what it meant to be a statesman. He didn’t just help write the history of South Carolina. He set us up for the future. From our technical school systems to the WIC program nationally, Senator Hollings has left a lasting legacy. He gave me my first internship in Washington. His wife Peatsy was my friend and pen pal. I will miss his wit, intellect and his sharp tongue. The nation will miss the great Fritz Hollings. So many of us stood up on his shoulders. I hope to continue his legacy.” — Jaime Harrison, associate Democratic National Committee chairman and possible Democratic U.S. Senate candidate from South Carolina
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“Fritz Hollings showed me from the first time I ran for the South Carolina House in 1978 – a campaign he helped me with — that politics could be an honorable calling. He cared deeply about the people of South Carolina and he made an incredible mark on our history. … He had such a sharp mind and quick wit. I also could always count on his wise counsel, and whenever I asked, he always went to bat for South Carolina. Mary Wood and I join with millions of South Carolinians today in mourning his passing and in celebrating his well-lived life.” — David Beasley, former South Carolina governor and current executive director of the World Food Programme.