U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer is remembering his Senate colleague John McCain as a "truthteller." Schumer released a statement shortly after McCain's death Saturday night, saying the Arizona senator's dedication to country and the military was unsurpassed. During an appearance in Orleans County Friday, the New York Democrat addressed McCain's legacy, just after his family announced McCain was stopping his cancer treatments.
"You don't meet many great men. He was one of them," Schumer said. "We were close. We did a lot of legislation together. He was my friend."
Schumer, who serves as the Senate's minority leader, said he will introduce legislation to rename the Russell Senate office building in Washington in McCain's memory.
“We will never forget the unparalleled courage, heart and service of John McCain," said Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand. "My thoughts are with his family as they mourn this great loss, but also as they celebrate his incredible life. It was a privilege to serve beside John in the Senate, and he will be so greatly missed.”
Gov. Andrew Cuomo said America lost a "great warrior."
"At a time of political division and hostility, Senator McCain was a maverick," Cuomo said. "While I did not always agree with his positions, he was a public servant who indisputably aimed to put country over party."
Cuomo directed that flags on state-owned buildings be flown at half-staff in honor of McCain.