The impact of Senator John McCain was noted locally on social media.
Congressmen Henry Cuellar, Will Hurd, Lyle Larson and others posted well-wishes and remembrances for McCain, who died Saturday.
Congressman Lloyd Doggett appeared Sunday on MSNBC to talk about McCain and his legacy. Both Texas Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz issued statements of admiration and condolence for McCain's family.
America has lost a fighter. @SenJohnMcCain was a war hero and an incredible public servant, who always bravely stood up for what he believed in. His dedication to service and fortitude will never be forgotten.
— Rep. Henry Cuellar (@RepCuellar) August 26, 2018
San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg traces his relationship with McCain back to when he was young.
"When I was in high school I went to Boys State and I remember hearing a lecture from a congressional leader who I missed the name of and it ended up being a story about being a prisoner of war,” Nirenberg said.
That lecturer stuck with Nirenberg.
“I remember he was so heartfelt and an imprint that was going to be permanent on my life, and I later found it was John McCain,” Nirenberg said. “Since then, I became interested in his career and watched him, admired him and will now join the rest of the country in mourning him."
Rest In Peace, @SenJohnMcCain. Thank you for demonstrating, in your life well lived, the courageous patriotism that so defines America. Ours is a country built on the idea that liberty is not realized until it advances the rights, dignity, and opportunity for all people. pic.twitter.com/K1kd5uJvJh
— Mayor Ron | Wear a mask! 😷 (@Ron_Nirenberg) August 26, 2018
Nirenberg said what McCain offered to the American political landscape is in short supply otherwise.
"He did represent what I think is best in public service, and that is someone who strives to represent all people, works to find compromise, and even while we can often disagree, we can do so while pursuing the best interests of our community," Nirenberg said.
My thoughts are with the loved ones of Senator John McCain, a giant of a man and true American hero who devoted his life to serving our nation with integrity and civility. It has been a distinct honor to be able to serve with him in Congress, and he will be sorely missed.
— Rep. Will Hurd (@HurdOnTheHill) August 26, 2018
McCain also has a San Antonio connection in the word most often used to describe him: maverick. South Texas rancher and eventual city Mayor Samuel Maverick had a reputation of being bold and independent, and his name eventually became synonymous with people whose individuality determines their actions. Many fans and foes alike are using that description now to describe John McCain.
Jack Morgan can be reached at jack@tpr.org
