Washington,
Dec 17, 2007 -
Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) released the following statement after learning of the death of his dear friend, Congresswoman Julia Carson this weekend:
“This is tragic news not only for Julia’s friends and family, but also for the people of Indiana’s 7th Congressional District,” Kucinich said.
Kucinich and Carson were first elected to Congress in the same year, taking office in 1997. They worked closely together on many issues including opposing funding for the Iraq war and standing together with 29 of their colleagues in voting not to count the electoral votes from Ohio in the 2004 presidential election.
“Julia Carson will always be remembered as a true pioneer. She was not only the first woman to represent Indianapolis in the U.S. House of Representatives, but was also the first African American to represent the district,” Kucinich said.
“Julia served the state of Indiana in a professional and dignified manner for more than three decades. She was truly a devoted and dedicated public servant.
“One of the qualities I will miss most about Julia is her incredible sense of humor. The House is just not going to be the same without her smiling face.
“Julia’s presence will be greatly missed on Capitol Hill. Elizabeth and I are deeply saddened by this news and wish to extend our love and sympathy to her entire family at this difficult time,” Kucinich said.