U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) issued the following statement today on the passing of former Alaska Senator Ted Stevens:
"Today, America lost a legend, a patriot and a gentle warrior who never stopped fighting for his beloved state of Alaska or for what he believed in. Ted Stevens is irreplaceable - his fierce loyalty and spirit remain unrivalled in the United States Senate. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will always live on. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Stevens family during these most difficult times."