WASHINGTON—Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins, Vice Chair of the House Republican Conference, released the following statement on the passing of former British prime minister Margaret Thatcher and her legacy:

“As the first woman to serve as Britain's prime minister, Margaret Thatcher paved the way for women in leadership around the world and was a true inspiration in my life. Today, the world has lost a true champion of free-market policies, individual responsibility, and small-government principles whose conviction and hard work helped restore prosperity to Britain after difficult economic times.

“Lady Thatcher was a close friend of former President Ronald Reagan. Their special relationship strengthened the alliance between the United States and the United Kingdom, and served a critical role in rolling back communism and ending the Cold War. My thoughts are prayers are with Lady Thatcher’s friends and family, as we remember her courage, strength of character, and conservative leadership.”

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