“Chief Justice Rehnquist served our country for more than thirty-three years on our nation’s highest court, and every American recognizes the courage and commitment to the Supreme Court that sustained him as he battled serious illness through the very end. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.

“America mourns Chief Justice Rehnquist, and also stops to remember the central role of the Supreme Court in the life of our nation. We know that as it has for hundreds of years, the changing Supreme Court will have an impact on our country for generations to come, and no single justice more so than the Chief Justice. As we move forward, it is important that the next Chief Justice is someone who will thoughtfully and responsibly uphold our Constitution for every American, with a clear and consistent respect for the freedoms protected by the Constitution.”

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