Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Former Congressman Jim Kolbe

Washington, D.C. — Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued this statement on the passing of former Congressman Jim Kolbe of Arizona:

"It is with great sadness that our Congressional community joins the people of Arizona in mourning the loss of Congressman Jim Kolbe. Whether in the United States Navy, the State Senate or the House of Representatives, Congressman Kolbe was a passionate public servant, who always defended his southern Arizona community.

"Congressman Kolbe first came to the Capitol as a teenager to serve as a Page for Senator Goldwater – so it was fitting when he returned to Washington in 1985 to represent his beloved home state in his own right. Here, he often reached across the aisle to uphold his values, from protecting women's health freedom to reforming our immigration system, and especially conserving Arizona's beautiful lands and cultural wonders. His courage to become only the second openly gay Republican elected to Congress was admired by many of his colleagues and countless Americans.

"Personally, it was my privilege to serve alongside Congressman Kolbe on the powerful Appropriations Committee, where he capably chaired the Subcommittee on Foreign Operations. His strong commitment to human rights shone through in his leadership, which made a difference to communities in our country and across the world. May it be a comfort to his dear husband Hector and their loved ones that so many pray for them during this sad time."