Ohio politicians react to Kennedy death

COLUMBUS (AP) — Ohio politicians are saddened by the death of Massachusetts Sen. Edward Kennedy.

Republican U.S. Sen. George Voinovich calls his Democratic colleague a man of convictions, passion and resolve. Voinovich also notes that Kennedy’s uplifting spirit and thoughtfulness helped the Ohioan’s family while a Voinovich nephew waged a losing battle with bone cancer.

Democratic Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland says Kennedy was a towering figure whose life exemplified a simple idea: service to others.

U.S. House Republican Leader John Boehner of Ohio recalls working with Kennedy on behalf of struggling Catholic schools in inner-city Washington. Ohio Democratic Party Chairman Chris Redfern says Kennedy’s work on education, health care and other issues will endure.