WASHINGTON, June 3 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today issued the following statement after New Jersey Senator Frank Lautenberg passed away at age 89.

“Jane and I are deeply saddened by the death of Frank Lautenberg, a personal friend, who served the people of his state and country with great vision and courage.  A World War II veteran and the son of immigrants, Frank never forgot his roots and, to his last days, continued to fight on behalf of working families and people in need.  He was also one of the great environmental champions in Congress. Frank Lautenberg’s honesty, intelligence and decency will be sorely missed in the U.S. Senate. Our condolences go out to Bonnie, his family and his many friends.”