U.S. President Barack Obama is pictured after announcing live on television the death of Osama bin Laden, from the East Room of the White House in Washington May 1, 2011.
Both sides of the aisle lauded Obama and U.S. troops for the victorious raid on Osama bin Laden’s hideaway.
Reactions to bin Laden’s death ranged from joy to relief, but no matter what emotions were coursing through them, politicians almost unanimously thanked the nation’s Commander-in-Chief and his troops for a successful takedown of the world’s most heinous terrorist mastermind. Here are some choice quotes from the myriad statements issued this morning:
Sen. John McCain (R-AZ)
“I am overjoyed that we finally got the world’s top terrorist. The world is a better and more just place now that Osama bin Laden is no longer in it. I hope the families of the victims of the September 11th attacks will sleep easier tonight and every night hence knowing that justice has been done. (via Politico)
Rudy Giuliani, New York City Mayor during the Sept. 11 attacks
“I feel a great sense of satisfaction that justice has been accomplished, but I don’t feel elation, because I don’t feel as though this is over — this war is still going on. And I have tremendous admiration for the courage that it took to execute this operation.” (via MSNBC)
Former President George W. Bush
“This momentous achievement marks a victory for America, for people who seek peace around the world, and for all those who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001. The fight against terror goes on, but tonight America has sent an unmistakable message: No matter how long it takes, justice will be done.” (via Facebook)
Rep. John Boehner, Speaker of the House (R-OH)
“This is great news for the security of the American people… We continue to face a complex and evolving terrorist threat, and it is important that we remain vigilant in our efforts to confront and defeat the terrorist enemy and protect the American people.” (via Swampland)
Sen. John Kerry (D-MA)
“We are a nation of peace and laws, and people everywhere should understand that our ten-year manhunt was in search of justice not revenge. Terrorists everywhere must never doubt that the United States will hunt them down no matter where they are, no matter how long it takes.” (via Boston Globe)
Former Vice President Dick Cheney
“Their tireless work since 9/11 has made this achievement possible, and enabled us to capture or kill thousands of Al-Qaeda terrorists and many of their leaders…Though bin Laden is dead, the war goes on. We must remain vigilant, especially now.” (via The Page)
Former President Bill Clinton
“This is a profoundly important moment not just for the families of those who lost their lives on 9/11 and in al-Qaeda’s other attacks but for people all over the world who want to build a common future of peace, freedom, and co-operation for our children.” (via People)
Sarah Palin, former Republican Vice Presidential nominee
“God bless all the brave men and women in our military and our intelligence services who contributed to carrying out the successful mission to bring Bin Laden to justice and who laid the groundwork over the years to make this victory possible. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of these brave Americans who relentlessly hunted down our enemy.” (via Facebook)