Rhode Island leaders remember Senator John McCain

August 26, 2018 7:10 pm

By: Amanda Pitts

alpitts@abc6.com

@AmandaPittsTV

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Condolences from politicians on both sides of the aisle are pouring in after the passing of Senator John McCain this weekend.

The Vietnam war hero lost his year-long battle with brain cancer on Saturday evening. Senator McCain spent more than five years as a prisoner of war, followed by three decades of service in Congress.

Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed looked back on his time on Capitol Hill alongside Senator McCain, saying there’s not many John McCain’s around.

"I think his voice will be missed, frankly. Not only for what he said but the credibility and legitimacy of his words."

Senator McCain chaired the Senate Armed Services Committee where Senator Reed is a ranking member. The long-time senators became friends over the years. Reed said they last spoke two months ago, calling their meeting a fond farewell.

"It was a friendship, but it was built on, first of all, mutual respect. We knew that everything we’re doing ultimately was about the men and women in the armed forces."

The two worked closely together on the latest National Defense Bill, which was recently renamed in McCain’s honor.

"He had been in combat, he had suffered in captivity. He had a remarkable position in the world. World leaders would rush to see him, literally."

Meanwhile, the leader of the Rhode Island Republican party is remembering the Senator as a true patriot and American hero.

"He’s just a man of honor, a man of integrity, a man of just incredible courage."

Brandon Bell feels the Senator leaves behind a great legacy of always fighting for the greater good.

"He’d fight and he’d get in your face, and fight for what was best."

Congressman Jim Langevin, who worked with McCain on the House side of the Armed Services Committee, said in a statement that Senator McCain’s " willingness to speak truth to power will be missed greatly in Congress and in our country."

The Senator’s funeral will be held at The National Cathedral. Former Presidents, George W. Bush and Barack Obama, were asked by Senator McCain to speak.