Congressman Gonzalez on the Passing of Governor Ann Richards

"On behalf of me and my family, I want to express my heartfelt condolences to the family of Governor Ann Richards," said Congressman Gonzalez.  "Texas lost a real heroine today and I join with the rest of the State, and indeed the nation, in mourning her loss. During a career that spanned three-decades in Texas politics, Ann Richards personified all that is good about public service. She began her career as a teacher and transitioned to a career as a public servant. Having had a similar background, she will always be one of my heroes. Ann Richards was the quintessential Texan: tough, outspoken, charming, funny, and proud of her roots. These traits, combined with a strong sense of social justice and an unyielding commitment to public service, made her an effective and colorful leader in Texas politics. Her tenure as governor will be remembered for expanding rights for women and minorities, and for her dedication to reform the state’s education system. I believe that she became a symbol of Texas to the rest of the nation, having achieved a level of recognition reserved for those who are truly great. I am proud of how she represented our state to the world. Today we have truly lost a Texas treasure. I will always respect how she never lost sight of the people she was fighting for. As others have said, she was part of the special breed that makes Texas great."