Update: Leaders and candidates react to death of RBG
Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died after battling pancreatic cancer - NBC's Tracy Potts looks back on the judge's life and legacy
WASHINGTON, D.C. (KYMA, KECY) - Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died Friday at her home in Washington, D.C.
Ginsburg died of complications from metastatic pancreatic cancer. She announced in July that she was undergoing chemotherapy treatment for lesions on her liver, the latest of her several battles with cancer.
The justice was only the second woman to serve on the nation's highest court. She spent her final years on the bench as the unquestioned leader of the court’s liberal wing and became something of a rock star to her admirers.
Young women especially seemed to embrace the court’s Jewish grandmother, affectionately calling her the Notorious RBG.
Friday evening, Kelli Ward, Chairwoman of the Republican Party of Arizona, released this statement on Ginsburg's passing :
“At this hour, America is mourning the loss of Supreme Court Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. America’s system of justice depends on the faithful service of men and women who dedicate themselves to the fair application of our laws. By definition, there are always those of different political persuasions who disagree with individual rulings and judicial philosophy. But today, we all honor and recognize the extraordinary career and tenacity of Justice Ginsburg. May she rest in peace and her family find comfort.”
-Kelli Ward, Chairwoman of the Republican Party of Arizona
Sen. Martha McSally, (R-Ariz.) sent condolences to Justice Ginsburg's family via Twitter:
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg broke barriers for all women. My prayers are with her family in this difficult time.
— Martha McSally (@SenMcSallyAZ) September 19, 2020
Mark Kelly, McSally's Democratic rival in the race for Arizona's U.S. Senate seat released this statement celebrating Ginburg's contributions:
“Justice Ginsburg dedicated her life to making our country more just and fair. She fought cancer with the same ferocity she fought for civil rights and equality. I am in awe of how much Justice Ginsburg accomplished in her lifetime, leaving a legacy that impacted women’s rights and equal protection under the law for all Americans. Gabby and I are so sad tonight, as I know many Arizonans are -- Justice Ginsburg will continue to be a role model for so many.”
-Mark Kelly, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate
U.S Representative Raúl Grijalva, (D-Ariz.) praised the judge's passion and accomplishments while expressing his sorrow:
“Today we suffer a momentous loss to our nation as we say thank you and goodbye to Justice Ginsburg - a torch-bearer of equity. Throughout her groundbreaking career in advocacy, law, and ultimately the Supreme Court, she never backed down from a fight for social justice. She paved a path of righteousness in this country, stood up to a system tilted toward men, and took a stand for women and vulnerable populations across this nation. I know that the lives of my daughters and granddaughters are better thanks to her work and shining example. To honor her legacy we must continue the work she began. We must never back down, and we must let her strength guide us."
-Rep. Raúl Grijalva, (D-Arizona)
Rep. Juan Vargas, (D-Calif.) shared his admiration for Ginsburg:
Supreme Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a champion for women rights and LGBTQ protections. Tonight, we mourn an incredible force and pray for our country. Her endless contributions to our nation should inspire us to be better. Her fight for justice for ALL continues. https://t.co/Kpfp1xaPF6
— Rep. Juan Vargas (@RepJuanVargas) September 19, 2020
This evening, Sen. Kyrsten Sinema gave thanks for the justice's inspiration:
“Ruth Bader Ginsburg spent her life showing the world that focused, unflappable women—who refused to be outworked—could change America for the better. She inspired me and countless others, and I join all Arizonans and all Americans in gratitude for her leadership and service to our country.”
-Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, (D-Ariz.)
Governor Doug, (R-Ariz.) celebrated the judge's accomplishments while sharing his condolences with her loved ones:
“Arizona joins the nation in mourning the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Justice Ginsburg led a trailblazing career as a champion for women and equal rights. During her 27 years on the Supreme Court, her immense intellect, tireless work ethic, and incredible talent as a jurist never waned, nor did her passion for justice. She has inspired generations of young girls and boys and gave us one of the most endearing examples of how to befriend those from across the aisle. Part of Justice Ginsburg’s enduring legacy is her friendship with Justice Scalia — a reminder of the importance of civility and decency. Now is the time for our country to honor her and her historic life as she so rightly deserves. My deepest condolences go out to her family and loved ones.”
-Gov. Doug Ducey, (R-Ariz.)
And Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-Calif.) called on the country to carry on Ginsburg's legacy:
We have lost a giant among us. A trailblazer. And a champion of equality and justice.
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) September 18, 2020
Our hearts ache tonight. Let us honor her memory by preserving the very ideals she fought so tirelessly for.
Rest in Power. https://t.co/Vv2KzS1Ql6
Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia, (D-Coachella) issued this statement on the judge's death:
“The passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has shaken our nation as we mourn the devastating loss of one of the most consequential voices in history. Throughout her career, Justice Ginsburg fought fiercely to further justice and champion equality while shattering glass ceilings of her own along the way. We all stand stronger on the shoulders of her achievements. Her legacy will continue to inspire and shape the future of our democracy.”
-Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia (D-Coachella)
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was 87-years-old.
