"As much as we mourn his loss, it is comforting to realize he is continuing his eternal progression. Sen. Bennett was not just a wise political leader for the state, he was someone I considered a friend. … His family is in my prayers and hopefully they take comfort in knowing their father and husband left this world a better place than he found it."

— Rep. Rob Bishop, R-Utah

* * *

"A political and intellectual heavyweight, Sen. Bennett was a model for pragmatism who knew how to get things done. His life and his heritage were a legacy of service. Sen. Bennett’s economic and political contributions to the state of Utah will continue to be felt long after his passing."

— Rep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah

* * *

"I spent some time with (Bennett) recently and was reminded once again that he is one of the smartest men I know. After winning my election in 2012, he was one of the first to bring me under his wing to offer advice and support. We will all miss his wisdom, wit and work ethic."

— Rep. Chris Stewart, R-Utah

* * *

"Utah benefitted greatly from the hard work Sen. Robert Bennett did during his three terms in the U.S. Senate. I praise his contributions and personal sacrifice on behalf of our state, and am grateful for all he has done."

— Rep. Mia Love, R-Utah

* * *

"(Bennett) was a giant in many respects, a tremendous public servant who used his significant intellect, business experience and deep compassion for humanity to represent our great state and work across the aisle on complex issues during tumultuous times. Utah mourns."

— Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes

“I was privileged to know Sen. Bennett for many years. Whenever we talked, it didn’t matter that I was a Democrat; what mattered was that I was a Utahn. We shared a love of politics, art and Shakespeare. … We have lost a leader in Utah, someone who made a major contribution to our state and nation. His presence and his politics will be missed.”

— Utah House Democratic Caucus Manager Patrice Arent

* * *

"Utah has lost a great public servant. Sen. Bob Bennett was an example to me of how politics is a way to give back to the community. My deepest sympathies to his family."

— Salt Lake County Mayor Ben McAdams

* * *

"Bob Bennett was an intelligent, collaborative senator who was willing to work across the political aisle in the best interest of Utahns. He always had a warm welcome and a piece of history to share when I had the good fortune of meeting with him. He will be sorely missed.”

— Utah Democratic Party Chairman Peter Corroon

* * *

“Sen. Bennett demonstrated extraordinary leadership throughout his life by showing incredible humanity and warmth while working on very difficult social and political issues."

View Comments

— Lane Beattie, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber

* * *

"In our day of noisy politics and politicians, Bob Bennett will be remembered and revered as a quiet, thoughtful leader who was filled with humility and civility while standing tall as a true statesman."

— David Buer, Sutherland Institute spokesman

Join the Conversation
Looking for comments?
Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.