Sports, Political Figures React to Jack Kemp's Passing

We continue to receive official statements from sports and political figures, remembering the life of former Buffalo Bill and longtime Western New York Congressman, Jack Kemp.

You can read them, in their entireties, here.

The Buffalo Bills:
"We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jack Kemp. Jack remains a legendary figure in our team's history, having led our 1964 and '65 teams to the American Football League Championship titles. His many outstanding unique qualities made him the exemplary role model of leadership for our team and later for our country. While today's news brings us much sadness, we cherish the many fond memories of Jack the loving husband and father, Jack the quarterback and Jack the congressman and we celebrate his life well lived. We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Joanne and their entire family."

Former President George W. Bush:
"[Kemp] will be remembered for his significant contributions to the Reagan revolution and his steadfast dedication to conservative principles."

New York State Senator Charles Schumer:
"Jack Kemp was a fine and good person in every way. He was a great athlete, an honorable and hard working elected official who had a profound effect on Buffalo and the country, and a good friend. I join the millions of people who mourn his loss."

Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Michael Steele:
"For over three decades Jack Kemp was a standard-bearer for economic conservatism and lower taxes within the Republican Party. From his 18 years spent representing upstate New York in the United States House of Representatives, to his four years as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President George H. W. Bush, to his work with Empower America, to his selection as the 1996 Republican vice-presidential nominee, Mr. Kemp was a tireless proponent of America's entrepreneurial and political spirit.

On a personal note, Jack was a dear friend and mentor. He would often remind me what it meant to be a 'Lincoln Republican.' Through his words and deeds, he inspired a new generation of republican activists. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife Joanne and their children, Jeffrey, Jennifer, Judith and Jimmy and the entire Kemp family as we thank them for sharing the life of Jack Kemp, with the American people."

New York State Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb:

"The passing of Congressman Jack Kemp is a tragic loss for his family, our state and the entire nation. From the courageous leadership he regularly displayed on the gridiron, to the bold vision he possessed as a Member of Congress, Jack Kemp was a 'New York original' in every sense of the word. He was a great Republican who had a genuine compassion for the less fortunate. Jack Kemp understood that public policies fostering job creation, a stronger economy and real tax relief were about more than just dollars and cents - they were about empowering people so they could realize their dreams and achieve a better quality of life. Jack Kemp had a passionate, committed work ethic that any Buffalo Bills fan would be proud of. Our Assembly Republican Conference offers its condolences and prayers to his immediate family, his extended Western New York family, the great State of New York, and a grateful nation."

New York State (26th Dist.) Congressman Chris Lee:

"I was saddened to hear of the passing of Jack Kemp, and I know the thoughts and prayers of all Western New Yorkers are with his loved ones at this difficult hour.

Jack's standing as one of the great Buffalo Bills of all time is often mentioned after his work as a reformer and great statesman. That is a testament to his prolific accomplishments and the incredible legacy of service to our nation he leaves behind."

Erie County Republican Chairman Jim Domagalski:

"I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a great American, former Congressman, HUD Secretary and Vice Presidential Candidate Jack Kemp.

Jack Kemp was a passionate conservative Republican who staunchly believed in the free market system and empowering individuals to realize the American dream. He was a tireless advocate for Buffalo and Western New York acting as the standard bearer for his successors in Congress, Bill Paxon, Tom Reynolds and Chris Lee.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Kemp family during their time off loss. Jack Kemp's leadership, love of his country and activism will be sorely missed."

New York State Governor David Paterson:

"Last night, we learned of the passing of Jack Kemp, who dedicated his life to public service, including nine terms representing Western New York in Congress.

Whether it was quarterbacking the Buffalo Bills to two American Football League Championships in the mid-sixties, serving as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President George H.W. Bush, or running for vice president in 1996, Mr. Kemp was a leader who passionately participated in our national debate. He epitomized Theodore Roosevelt's 'Man in the Arena,' providing ideas and taking action on issues important to the Buffalo area, New York State and nation.

On behalf of all New Yorkers, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jack Kemp. Mr. Kemp will be forever linked to Western New York and we will remember his many years of dedicated service."

President Barack Obama:

"Jack Kemp's commitment to public service and his passion for politics influenced not only the direction of his party, but his country. From his tenure as a Buffalo congressman to his ascent in national politics, Jack Kemp was a man who could fiercely advocate his own beliefs and principles while also remembering the lessons he learned years earlier on the football field: that bitter divisiveness between race and class and station only stood in the way of the 'common aim of a team to win.' Michelle and I extend our prayers and deepest condolences to the entire Kemp family."

Conservative Party of NYS Chairman, Michael R. Long:

"The best way to honor the memory of Congressman Jack Kemp would be to emulate his life. Congressman Kemp, was a good friend of the Conservative Party.

From his football years, winning two AFL Championships, to his personal life, Jack Kemp lived by the values he brought to Congress. While there, Kemp was a pro-life, pro-school-prayer, pro-civil-rights, enthusiastic supporter of supply-side economics; the theory that believes in allowing people to keep more of what they earned by cutting tax rates, thereby fueling the growth of economy.

History has proved him right."

Label: Sport