New England lawmakers and organizations took to social media Tuesday night to share their reactions to the news that former first lady Barbara Bush had died. She was 92.
"My deepest condolences to the Bush family on the passing of former First Lady Barbara Bush," Boston Mayor Marty Walsh said. "We honor the life she lived and her commitment to family and country."
Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker thanked Mrs. Bush for her service to our country.
"I had the chance to meet former First Lady Barbara Bush on several occasions & also watched her interact with rooms full of people. Tons of grace & charm. Thank you for your service to our country. RIP."
The news of Mrs. Bush's death hit hard in Maine and the town of Kennebunkport, where the Bush family has been spending summers for decades.
"We're sorry to learn of the passing of Barbara Bush. Thank you for caring about our community," Kennebunk Police said. "Thank you for patrolling Kennebunk Beach for so many years!"
Congresswoman Chellie Pingree, who represents Maine's 1st District, released a statement that touched on Mrs. Bush's love of Maine.
“I was saddened to hear the news of the passing of former First Lady Barbara Bush. Mrs. Bush was a remarkable woman whose compassion touched the lives of many– she held a special place in our country and especially here in Maine. When I met the first lady, it was clear that she was perceptive, outspoken and loved her family, her dogs and the state of Maine."
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The statement went on to read, "The former First Lady’s commitment to Maine was always apparent through her donation of time and resources to the Maine Literacy Volunteers, the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital at Maine Medical Center, and the University of New England’s George and Barbara Bush Center. Her legacy will live on through her family and her charitable works. Our thoughts remain with the Bush family during this sad time.”
Sen. Susan Collins from Maine echoed the sentiment that Mrs. Bush had a profound impact on the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital.
"Barbara Bush was a great First Lady, a terrific advocate for literary programs and the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital in Portland, and a strong woman who loved her family, the State of Maine, and our country," Sen. Susan Collins from Maine said in one of three tweets.
"Every summer for more than 20 years, I have visited President and Mrs. Bush at their Kennebunkport home. It was always one of the highlights of the year," Sen. Collins said in a third tweet. "I shall miss those delightful visits with her. My heart goes out to President Bush and to the entire family."
Maine Gov. Paul LePage also shared his condolences, touching on how special Mrs. Bush was to Maine residents.
"Ann and I send our deepest condolences to the Bush family upon the passing of First Lady Barbara Bush tonight," Maine Gov. Paul LePage said. "Mainers hold a special place in our hearts for President and Mrs. Bush, and we will treasure our memories of her time spent in our state. She will be missed."
Reaction from other New England lawmakers and sports organizations poured in Tuesday night.
