Missouri Political Leaders React to the Passing of Former Congressman Ike Skelton

Various political figures throughout Missouri have expressed their thoughts on the passing of Congressman Ike Skelton.

Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-4) has offered the following statement on the passing of former Congressman Ike Skelton:

I am deeply saddened at the passing of my predecessor and respected friend, Ike Skelton. I have appreciated our conversations over the past two and a half years and the commitment we shared to see Missouri's 4th District prosper. I am thankful for Ike's tireless efforts on behalf of our men and women in uniform and know our country is safer as a result of his unwavering leadership. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

Senator Claire McCaskill:

Missouri lost a giant tonight. Ike Skelton represented the very best of Missouri, and fought tirelessly for the state he loved. Those of us lucky enough to call him a friend know that he lived the Missouri values of compromise and common sense. And in his half-century of service, he showed how Missouri could be a leader in contributing to the safety and security of our nation. I join all Missourians in sending my thoughts and prayers to Patty and the rest of Ike's family. I'll miss him dearly.

Senator Roy Blunt:

It was a great privilege to serve Missouri in the Congress with Ike Skelton and to benefit from his friendship and advice.

No member of the Congress was more dedicated to America's defense and those who defend us than Ike Skelton.

He loved our country and its history and will be remembered for his contributions to both.

Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II:

I have performed weddings and funerals for Ike and his family, and loved him dearly. There is nothing as strong as gentleness, and nothing as gentle as pure strength. Ike was all of that and more. Public service was a part of his very soul and the world is a colder place tonight.

Missouri Democratic Party Chairman Roy Temple issued the following statement on the passing of Congressman Ike Skelton

He was a Missourian, a statesman and a champion of a strong and sensible national defense. And above all, he was a gentleman. His love of and faith in America was unshakable and his support for the U.S. military was second to none. This is a loss for Missouri and the nation. We extend our sincerest sympathy to his family.

Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement upon learning of the passing of former Congressman Ike Skelton (D-MO):

I am truly saddened to learn of the passing of a great Missourian, Ike Skelton.  He was a true giant of Missouri history, tireless defender of Veterans and a man of great integrity who was a consistent voice for the brave men and women of our Armed Forces.

His service and commitment to serving others will never be forgotten, and my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.

Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) issued the following statement regarding the passing of former Congressman Ike Skelton:

I am truly saddened to learn of the passing of Ike Skelton, who was a great friend. From his start as a county prosecutor through his 34 years in Congress, Ike always put Missouri and America first. He was a great Missourian who was an unsurpassed expert on military and national defense matters. Ike was also an Eagle Scout, and though we were from different parties, I knew I could always work with Ike to benefit our state. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

Whiteman Air Force Base 509th Bomb Wing Commander, Brig. General Thomas A. Bussiere:

It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of a true patriot and friend of Whiteman Air Force Base. For 34 years, Congressman Ike Skelton served Missouri's fourth district, and all Americans everywhere, with wisdom, judgment and foresight that set him apart from his peers. We owe him a debt gratitude for all that he has done for the people of Missouri and Team Whiteman, and our hearts go out to his friends and family.