Political world mourns death of Ross Perot

Several political figures mourned two-time presidential candidate and billionaire businessman Ross Perot on Tuesday after news of his death.

Perot, 89, had been being diagnosed with leukemia in February.

{mosads}The Texas businessman ran for president in 1992 and 1996 as a third-party candidate, amassing 19 percent of the popular vote in his first White House bid. Although he did not win any electoral votes, many credit him with helping seal former President Clinton’s victory over former President George H.W. Bush.

In 2000, Perot endorsed George W. Bush’s candidacy for president.

The younger Bush praised Perot as a “strong patriot” on Tuesday following reports of his death.

“Ross Perot epitomized the entrepreneurial spirit and the American creed,” the former president said in statement. “He gave selflessly of his time and resources to help others in our community, across our country, and around the world.

“Laura and I send our heartfelt condolences to the entire Perot family as they celebrate a full life.”

Former Vice President Al Gore, who participated in a televised debate with Perot over the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), also praised Perot.

“I’ve always had the utmost respect for Ross Perot, for his patriotism, love of country, and extraordinary commitment to our veterans,” Gore tweeted. “I send my deepest condolences to his family and to everyone who loved and admired him.” 

I’ve always had the utmost respect for Ross Perot, for his patriotism, love of country, and extraordinary commitment to our veterans. I send my deepest condolences to his family and to everyone who loved and admired him.

— Al Gore (@algore) July 9, 2019

Vice President Mike Pence said he was “saddened to learn of the passing of a great American, a true patriot and a steadfast supporter of our military.”

pic.twitter.com/N4I4X40apw

— Vice President Mike Pence (@VP) July 9, 2019 

Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee (R) called Perot a “true American patriot” who “lived and proved the American dream.”

Just learned of death of H. Ross Perot at age 89. He was a brilliant businessman, a true American patriot, and a generous philanthropist. From humble start in Texarkana, USA he lived and proved the American Dream. Condolences to his wonderful family.

— Gov. Mike Huckabee (@GovMikeHuckabee) July 9, 2019

Texas Sen. Ted Cruz (R) called the Perot a state “legend.”

Our hearts are heavy as we bid farewell to Ross Perot. In his 89 years on earth, he lived the American dream to the fullest. Ross is a Texas legend. He will be remembered as an outstanding entrepreneur, philanthropist, and dedicated husband and father.

— Senator Ted Cruz (@SenTedCruz) July 9, 2019

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) highlighted Perot’s support of veteran’s rights while praising the businessman.

“Ross Perot was a champion for veterans’ rights and ahead of his time on disastrous trade policies,” Sanders wrote. “During his campaign, he explained, in depth, how he would address our national problems and spurred serious discussion. Ross Perot was a one-of-a kind American. He will be missed.”

Fellow Texas lawmaker Rep. Will Hurd (R) lamented Perot’s death, but wrote that his presence would “continue to be felt across our state and nation for future generations.”

My heart is heavy for the loved ones of Ross Perot as come together to celebrate the extraordinary life of an extraordinary American. He will be sorely missed, but his presence will continue to be felt across our state and nation for future generations. https://t.co/vIfRKnxywT

— Rep. Will Hurd (@HurdOnTheHill) July 9, 2019

And Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) praised Perot for paving the way for political newcomers, like himself and President Trump, writing “Ross Perot was right about the dangers of NAFTA and runaway government spending because he spoke from real experience – not as a career politician – and paved the way for entrepreneurs like me and President @realDonaldTrump to shake the system in D.C.”

Ross Perot was right about the dangers of NAFTA and runaway government spending because he spoke from real experience – not as a career politician – and paved the way for entrepreneurs like me and President @realDonaldTrump to shake the system in D.C.https://t.co/B4SM9SdgiY

— Senator Mike Braun (@SenatorBraun) July 9, 2019