CONCORD - “Senator Kennedy was a strong voice for the people of Massachusetts, and hard-working men and women across the United States. He worked tirelessly for the last 50 years in the U.S. Senate on important issues including civil rights, health care and education.

“Senator Kennedy was a force in the United States Senate because he understood that he could hold firm to his principles and still reach across the aisle to find common ground. Senator Kennedy’s willingness to listen and compromise led to progress for all Americans.

“My wife Susan and I want to express our thoughts and deepest sympathies to the entire Kennedy family.”