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Politicians And Public Figures Pay Respects To The Late Nancy Reagan

by John Haltiwanger
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On Sunday, former First Lady Nancy Reagan died of congestive heart failure at the age of 94, NBC News reports.

Beloved by many, she was fiercely dedicated to her husband, who died in 2004 at the age of 93 from Alzheimer's disease. When the former president announced his diagnosis in 1994, he said,

I only wish there was some way I could spare Nancy from this painful experience.

The Reagans were an unquestionably loyal and loving couple.

Nancy Reagan is widely known for starting the "Just Say No" anti-drug campaign, and she's remembered as an elegant and dignified woman who was one of the most impactful first ladies of the 20th century.

She was definitely an individual with a lot of spirit.

Following the news of her death, many politicians and other public figures took to Twitter to express their thoughts and feelings.

In a statement widely shared on Twitter, the Obamas said Nancy Reagan "redefined" the role of first lady.

Former President George W. Bush didn't tweet directly, but his statement on her passing was shared by many.

Republican presidential candidates Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, John Kasich and Donald Trump also offered their condolences.

Democratic presidential candidate Senator Bernie Sanders (who didn't tweet directly but released a statement) said this was a "sad day for America."

The entire Clinton family also expressed sadness over this news.

Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney wrote a touching statement on Facebook and tweeted it.

South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley described Nancy Reagan as strong and graceful.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo also expressed his sadness over the death of the former first lady.

Senator Chuck Schumer aptly noted having respect for Nancy Reagan had nothing to do with partisanship.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also offered his condolences to the Reagan family on behalf 0f America's northern neighbor.

Former California governor and world-famous actor Arnold Schwarzenegger described Nancy Reagan as one of his "heroes."

Iconic news anchor Katie Couric tweeted a touching photo of her and the former first lady.

Fox News anchor Bill O'Reilly also expressed his thoughts on the news.

Actor Omar Benson Miller said he was influenced positively by the "Just Say No" campaign.

And even NASA paid its respects.

RIP Nancy Reagan.