DENVER (KDVR) — U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died of complications from metastatic pancreatic cancer Friday. She was 87 years old.
Below is a list of reactions from leaders in Colorado following Ginsburg’s passing:
Gov. Jared Polis:
“Today Coloradans and our nation mourn the loss of a titan. We have lost a fearless advocate for women and families and someone who never stopped working toward greater equality for all in the eyes of the law. I am deeply saddened by the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She spent her incredible career giving a voice to the voiceless and standing up for what is right. Her words and her legacy will live on in all those she has inspired. We will forever be grateful for her contributions to making our country a better place.”
Attorney General Phil Weiser:
“Our nation mourns the loss of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, an iconic leader, jurist, and role model. Justice Ginsburg changed my life, teaching me about equal justice under the law and what outstanding legal work looks like—an important life-long lesson. For millions around the world, her memory will continue to be a blessing.
“Justice Ginsburg’s passing on the eve of the Jewish New Year adds further meaning to a time that calls out for healing and renewal. My heart aches for her family and the broader family of clerks and mentees who have lost a devoted teacher and inspiration. I will miss her deeply and will continue to work to meet her high expectations for justice and rigorous legal work.”
Sen. Michael Bennet:
“Few Americans have done as much as Ruth Bader Ginsburg to pull America closer to its ideals. Her tenacity, brilliance, and moral compass will be deeply missed, especially at this fraught moment. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones.”
Sen. Cory Gardner:
“It is with a solemn heart that I pray for the family of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Thank you for your service to our country and our nation’s highest court. Our nation mourns the loss of a trailblazing leader.”
On Saturday, Gardner avoided a question about Ginsburg’s replacement, saying there will be “plenty of time” for politics.
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock:
“Justice Ginsburg was a trailblazer – a champion for justice, a brilliant legal mind and a legend – and her influence on young women is unmatched. Her impact, and her loss, will be felt for generations to come. RIP #NotoriusRBG“
Rep. Diana DeGette:
“Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a hero. Her dedication to advancing women’s rights and equality for all was unrivaled, and her presence on the highest court in our land will be deeply missed.
“The American people should have a voice in the selection of their next Supreme Court Justice. Mitch McConnell and the Republican-led Senate must wait until the next administration is sworn into office, whoever that may be, before considering a nominee to replace her.”
This list will be updated as more leaders express their condolences.
Colorado House Majority Leader Alec Garnett:
“With every decision, every dissent, and every question raised during Supreme Court hearings, Ruth Bader Ginsburg furthered the cause of justice. At 5’1, she was a towering presence — a fierce ally to all those who fought for equality and the improvement of our country and a fearless foe to those who did not. I can only hope and pray that Cory Gardner, Mitch McConnell and the Republican Senate in Washington will respect the legacy of an American icon, as well as their own rules about Supreme Court appointments during presidential election years, and wait until 2021 to vote on a nominee for her seat.”
Rep. Jason Crow:
“Our nation lost one of our greatest heroes and public servants today. My heart breaks as our nation mourns. May Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Rest in Peace, and may our country find a path forward that honors her spirit of justice, equality, and dignity.
“In the days and weeks ahead, every Senator will be called upon to uphold their oath and to show to the American people that there is honor and dignity in their service. Tonight, I called Senator Gardner urging him to honor his obligation to a power higher than rank partisanship. Senator Gardner must commit to the people of Colorado that he will not replace Justice Ginsberg until after inauguration and to play by the rules he created.
“Our democracy cannot survive if we sacrifice the rule of law for political convenience.”
Rep. Joe Neguse:
“Devastating. Utterly devastating. Thank you Justice Ginsburg — for your commitment to the rule of law, your relentless championing of equal rights for all, and your incredible service to our country.”
Rep. Ken Buck:
“The country mourns a great jurist and trailblazer. Rest In Peace Justice Ginsburg. Our prayers are with her family and loved ones.”
U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn:
“Along with the entire US Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado, I am saddened by the loss of Justice Ginsburg. She was a dedicated jurist who believed deeply in the constitutional principles she defended, including equality for all people. When I think of the truly outstanding attorneys who work in my office, I cannot help but believe that many chose legal careers due at least in part to the groundbreaking career and advocacy of Justice Ginsburg. And for that, I am indeed grateful.”