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Austin American-Statesman: Texans react to death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg

September 18, 2020

Texans reacted Friday evening to the death of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who died at the age of 87 after serving on the nation's highest court for more than 27 years.

Here's what some of them had to say:

– U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas: Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has been a titan of the Supreme Court for more than a quarter of a century. Despite our ideological differences, I have always maintained a deep respect for Justice Ginsburg. Her unwavering commitment to public service has inspired a generation of young Americans – particularly women – to reach for their dreams. As our country mourns this loss, Sandy and I send our condolences to her children, Jane and James, and the entire Ginsburg family.

– Democratic U.S. Senate candidate MJ Hegar: Ruth Bader Ginsburg leaves behind an incredible legacy of standing up for equality and justice. For decades she worked on the frontlines to secure and uphold the rights of women, workers, and those often left behind. My thoughts are with her family, friends, and the millions of women and Americans she fought for. Today we mourn her loss and tomorrow we commit to honoring her legacy by continuing her work.

– U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin: This is a painful loss of a defender of our most fundamental liberties at a time when our very democracy is increasingly imperiled by Donald Trump and his enablers. The best tribute to our beloved RBG is to replace a president who shares none of her values. Everything is at stake; let's give it everything we have.

– Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton: Our hearts go out to the family of United States Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a remarkable woman, a fighter of top intellect and reason, who passed away this evening. Justice Ginsburg broke countless barriers throughout her long, distinguished career and served as an example for women across the country. We are thankful for her service.

– State Sen. José Menéndez, D-San Antonio: It is with great heartache and sadness that my family and I mourn the loss of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Justice Ginsburg was a champion for women, minorities, and the disenfranchised – because she was a champion for social justice. History will remember her fervent advocacy towards equality for all, and honor the path she has paved for us. My thoughts and prayers are with Justice Ginsburg's family, and our beloved United States of America. As a country we will mourn this immeasurable loss, and in her honor continue Justice Ginsburg's fight.

– Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa and Vice Chairwoman Carla Brailey: Advancing women's rights is one of the biggest unfinished works from the past century, and few did more to advance the rights of women and girls than Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Supreme Court Justice, women's rights advocate, trailblazer, and icon, Justice Ginsburg fiercely loved our country, our Constitution, and our pursuit of a more perfect union. Her career would lead her to become the second woman to ever serve on the Supreme Court. Throughout her tenure on the bench, Justice Ginsburg made us believe that a more equitable future was possible. Now, it is up to us to carry on her legacy. We can finish the fight she started. Our thoughts are with the Ginsburg family. Rest in power.