Reno, NV – Nevada Senator Harry Reid released the following statement today on the passing of former South African President Nelson Mandela:

“My thoughts are with Nelson Mandela’s family and with the people of South Africa during this difficult time. As both the emancipator of a people and the founder of a modern democracy, Mandela was one of the truly unique and transcendent figures of our time. Mandela embodied the very spirit of democracy, freedom, and equality. He leaves behind an incredible legacy that will not be forgotten, and which will continue to inspire current and future leaders for generations to come.”