Despite being pre-emptively ‘disinvited’ by McCain from his funeral, Donald Trump has expressed his condolences, joining a long list of US politicians praising the late John McCain’s patriotism, heroism and high morals.
“Our hearts and prayers are with you!” Trump tweeted after McCain's family announced the senator's death. Recalling John McCain's six-decade service to the nation, many US politicians called the Republican a true “patriot” and a “war hero.” Others noted the 81-year-olds "dignity" and "values" that were cherished by all Americans.
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"We have lost a man who steadfastly represented the best ideals of our country," Defense Secretary James Mattis said in a statement.
Sen. Bernie Sanders also called McCain his "friend" and an "American" hero", noting the politician's "decency and honor." "He will be missed not just in the U.S. Senate but by all Americans who respect integrity and independence," the Vermont senator said.
Republican Party chair Ronna McDaniel noted that McCain was a strong supporter of American leadership in the world, as well as a "tireless champion of our nation’s troops and veterans."
The US lost "one its most distinguished men of gallantry," former National Security Advisor Colin Powell noted. The retired four-star general and a long time friend of the Senator highlighted McCain's toughness, demonstrated when he was a prisoner of war in Vietnam.
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