Reactions on the death of former Interior Secretary Stewart Udall in Santa Fe, N.M., at age 90:
“Whether in the skies above Italy in World War II, in Congress or as secretary of the Interior, Stewart Udall left an indelible mark on this nation and inspired countless Americans who will continue his fight for clean air, clean water and to maintain our many natural treasures.”—President Barack Obama.
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“Stewart Udall was one of the greatest secretaries of the Interior in my lifetime. Secretary Udall, who also served in the U.S. House of Representatives, was a pioneer and visionary in protecting America’s natural resources and cultural heritage who exemplified his family’s commitment to public service.”—Interior Secretary Ken Salazar.
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“As a member of President Kennedy’s cabinet, he set the standard for commitment to conservation and stewardship of public lands.”—Sen. Jeff Bingaman, D-N.M.
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“Stewart Udall was, plainly and simply, the most consistent, most respected and most effective American environmental voice of the past 50 years. What he did beginning five decades ago as secretary of the interior shaped the nation we are today.”—Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz.
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“Stewart Udall was a giant in conservation and the father of America’s wilderness and national park system. The Udall family, led by Stewart, symbolized a new environmentally conscious West.”—New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, who ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in Udall’s honor.
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“Stewart Udall dedicated his life to this country—as a soldier, a member of Congress, a Cabinet secretary and a public advocate. He championed the interests of rural Arizona in the U.S. House of Representatives and was a powerful voice for justice throughout his career.”—Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick, D-Ariz.
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“Stewart Udall will never be forgotten, as his legacy is all around us in our national parks and public lands.”—Rep. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M.
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“He was a true statesman, a role model for anyone who believes in the honor and privilege of public service and for those who champion our environment.”—Rep. Harry Mitchell, D-Ariz.
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“Secretary Udall’s compassion and pragmatism are a model for all, and his actions left a legacy that we will remember and honor for generations.”—Rep. Ben Ray Lujan, D-N.M.
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“He was such a likeable, knowledgeable, balanced person. … He was just such a leader. He went into government for all the right reasons.”—Former New Mexico Gov. David Cargo.
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“His contributions to the people of our state will live on as we continue his work to protect our public lands and enjoy the benefits of our wilderness areas and national parks.”—Rep. Harry Teague, D-N.M.
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“Very few Americans had such a meaningful impact on our region and the nation during the 20th century.”—New Mexico Lt. Gov. Diane Denish.
