Following the sudden death of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, politicians and others reacted to the news online, with many weighing in on whether Scalia's successor should be appointed during President Obama's term.
President Obama
The White House released the following statement Saturday afternoon: "This afternoon the President was informed of the passing of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. The President and First Lady extend their deepest condolences to Justice Scalia's family. We'll have additional reaction from the President later today."
Charlie Baker
"Lieutenant Governor Polito and I join the Scalia family and the nation in mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant and the first Italian-American to serve on the nation's highest court. The justice's intellect, wit and ability to get along with colleagues, despite philosophical differences, were respected by all."
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Mitch McConnell
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell released a statement Saturday saying the now-vacant Supreme Court seat should not be filled until the next president's term.
My statement on the passing of Judge Scalia. pic.twitter.com/4JSmbKWzDy
— Leader McConnell (@SenateMajLdr) February 13, 2016
Ted Cruz
Justice Scalia was an American hero. We owe it to him, & the Nation, for the Senate to ensure that the next President names his replacement.
— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) February 13, 2016
Donald Trump
The totally unexpected loss of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia is a massive setback for the Conservative movement and our COUNTRY!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 13, 2016
Marco Rubio
Jeanette & I mourn the loss of Justice Scalia, and our thoughts & prayers are with his wife Maureen & his family. pic.twitter.com/e03KRZRM6q
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 13, 2016
Harry Reid
The President can and should send the Senate a nominee right away. The Senate has a responsibility to fill vacancies as soon as possible.
— Senator Harry Reid (@SenatorReid) February 13, 2016
Bernie Sanders
My thoughts and prayers are with Justice Scalia's family and his colleagues on the court who mourn his passing. pic.twitter.com/Y51xUMMEId
— Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) February 13, 2016
John Kasich
Gov. Kasich's statement on the passing of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. pic.twitter.com/MAypwTGQR2
— John Kasich (@JohnKasich) February 13, 2016
More coverage of the death of Justice Antonin Scalia:
Material from the Associated Press was used in this report.