Politicians from across Illinois and different parties are remembering the late Jim Edgar. A Republican who served two-terms as Illinois governor from 1991 to 1999 died on Sunday. In February, he announced he was being treated for pancreatic cancer.
Below are statements from various leaders. It will be updated as we receive them:
Gov. JB Pritzker (D-Illinois):
“MK and I are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Governor Jim Edgar. Governor Edgar was a model public servant, a devoted father and husband, and an honest and honorable man.
“I was lucky enough to consider him a friend and mentor and have found myself drawing from his words of wisdom on countless occasions. His commitment to reaching across the aisle in service of the people of Illinois undeniably made our state better.“Now more than ever, we should channel that spirit and resolve to live as Governor Edgar did: with honesty, integrity, and an enduring respect for all.
“He will live on in the incalculable number of lives he touched and in the stronger institutions he helped build. To honor his legacy, I will direct flags across Illinois to half-staff.
“My thoughts are with Brenda, Brad, Elizabeth, and his entire family. May his memory be a blessing.”
Lt. Gov. Julianna Stratton (D-IL):
“Former Governor Jim Edgar was a man of principle and a passionately dedicated civil servant. He saw past political divides and emphasized the importance of unity in leadership by making a point to always extend his hand across the aisle. He was practical, gave great advice, and did everything he could to build up the next generation of future leaders so that Illinois can continue to grow.
“I was part of the 2016 Edgar Fellows cohort, a program developed by Governor Edgar to strengthen Illinois’ future by preparing young leaders for the world ahead. Together, we worked to embody some of the tenets that made Governor Edgar such a strong leader: listen to understand, speak to be understood, and operate in a way that makes clear disagreements do not have to be disrespectful. When he invited me to become a member of the Edgar Fellows Advisory Board, I was honored to accept. Now, I have the privilege of sharing his steady perspective and deep care with future leaders.
“Today, I send my deepest condolences to the love of his life, Brenda, and their entire family. His legacy is one of lasting impact.”
Gov. Pat Quinn (D-IL), served from 2009-2015:
“Gov. Jim Edgar was a good and decent man who cared deeply about the people of Illinois. He believed in property tax reform and a quality education for everyone.
“May God rest his immortal soul.”
Former State Rep. and State Sen. Darren Bailey (R):
“Please join Cindy and me in keeping the family of Governor Jim Edgar in your prayers. While we certainly found ourselves on opposite sides of issues from time to time, I have always had a tremendous respect for the decades of public service he gave to the people of Illinois.
From his time as Secretary of State to his two terms as Governor, Jim Edgar led with a steady hand and a deep commitment to the institutions of our state. He was a man of integrity and strong moral character who dedicated his career to public service. His contributions to Illinois will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time of loss. We are grateful for his years of leadership and the example of service he leaves behind.”
Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D) Illiniois’ 13th Congressional District
“Governor Edgar was a mentor, true public servant, and dear friend. He led Illinois with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the people of our state.
“As a graduate of the University of Illinois’ Edgar Fellows program, I had the privilege of seeing firsthand how Governor Edgar brought people together. He had a rare gift for bridging divides, encouraging voices from all perspectives, and helping us discover common ground on even the most difficult issues.
“Governor Edgar was a voice of reason, a champion of civility, and an unwavering advocate for collaboration. In today’s era of division and political turmoil, his example of steady leadership and his voice of wisdom will be profoundly missed.
“My thoughts are with his wonderful family, especially Brenda, Brad and Elizabeth, along with our entire state as we mourn his passing and celebrate his extraordinary life.”