klobucharIn a statement, U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar recalled the late Sen. Edward Kennedy’s “wit and stories” and “fiery zest,” calling him an “inspiration.”

Here is Klobuchar’s full statement:

Ted Kennedy’s wit and stories, his passion for a cause and his country, and his love for the Senate just made you want to go to work every day.

I had the privilege to serve with Ted Kennedy in the Senate for just two years. He was a mentor to so many of us just starting out, not in the traditional “this is how you get it done” way, but instead as an inspiration. He never gave up and had a fiery zest for the legislative battles that was always tempered by a bipartisan pragmatism. He was incredibly strong and effective and had the deep respect of everyone that worked with him.

My thoughts and prayers are with Vicki, his children, and the entire Kennedy family.