COLUMBUS, Ohio — Reaction is coming in after news broke Monday morning that Colin Powell had died from COVID-19 complications. He was 84.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine ordered all state flags lowered to half-staff to honor Powell. He and several other state politicians also reacted to the news of Powell's death with statements.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine
Today our country has lost one of its most accomplished citizens, General Colin L. Powell. A son of Jamaican immigrants, General Powell served his country in the U.S. Army beginning in ROTC and rose through the ranks to become a four-star general and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Colin Powell also served our nation as the first African-American Secretary of State, traveling the world as America’s top diplomat.
Colin Powell cared about helping America’s young people and was the chairman of America’s promise, a non-profit organization to help young people build character.
Fran and I extend our sympathy to Secretary Powell’s wife, Alma, and the entire Powell family.
Note: Video below features a speech Powell delivered in Cleveland on June 11, 2014 (courtesy Cleveland Foundation / YouTube):
U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown
Secretary Colin Powell lived his life in service to our country – as a veteran, as a statesman, and through his work with America's Promise. Sending my condolences to his wife Alma and his family.
U.S. Senator Rob Portman
Today we lost an American hero. Colin Powell was a soldier, statesman & friend. His integrity, intellect, unwavering moral compass & ability to connect with ppl from all walks of life made him a role model. Jane & I send our condolences & prayers to Alma Powell & their family.
Ohio Congressman and U.S. Senate candidate Tim Ryan
Colin Powell was an American patriot and devout public servant who leaves behind a remarkable legacy. Andrea and I send our prayers to his wife and family.
Ohio Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur
Throughout his decades of military and diplomatic service, General Colin Powell was an insightful, humble leader who offered critical guidance to our nation during her most trying times. We join with all Americans in mourning his passing, and express our deepest condolences to his loved ones for their immense loss.
Ohio Congressman Anthony Gonzalez
Secretary Colin Powell was a truly great public servant to our country, serving as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and our nation's first African American Secretary of State.
Secretary Powell was a great man that loved his family, and he will be deeply missed.
Ohio Congressman Dave Joyce
Colin Powell was a patriot whose leadership served as a guiding light to the United States during pivotal moments in history, from the fall of the Soviet Union to the rise of global terrorism. To say that he had a profound impact on the world would be an understatement.
During the years in which he proudly served his country, Colin Powell not only defended our democracy but also advanced freedom across the globe. I have no doubt that his legacy will continue to shape the future of America and hope that his courage, integrity, and honor will serve as an inspiration for all those looking to join public service.
Please join Kelly and I in praying for the Powell family and their many loved ones who grieve this great loss.
Ohio Congressman Mike Turner
Former Secretary of State Powell was a true public servant and I had the honor of working with him during his time serving in the George W. Bush Administration. As the first African American Secretary of State, he served our nation admirably and his legacy will not be forgotten.
NOTE: We will update this story with additional statements as they come in. Please refresh this story for the most up-to-date version.
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