Reaction of the presidential candidates to Sen. Edward Kennedy's hospitalization: "I have been in contact with his family. Obviously they are in our thoughts and in our prayers. Ted Kennedy is a giant in American political history. He's done more for health care than just about anybody in history. We are going to be rooting for him. I insist on being optimistic about how it's going to turn out." _ Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., who spoke to reporters in Eugene, Ore. ___ "Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family because he has been a champion for health care. Nobody has fought harder to make sure everybody got good health care. And I know that we all join together in wishing him well." _ Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., while campaigning in Loretto, Ky. ___ "I was very sorry to hear that Senator Kennedy has taken ill, and like millions of Americans, Cindy and I anxiously await word of his condition. Senator Kennedy's role in the U.S. Senate cannot be overstated. He is a legendary lawmaker, and I have the highest respect for him. When we have worked together, he has been a skillful, fair and generous partner. I consider it a great privilege to call him my friend. Cindy and I are praying for our friend, his wife, Vicki, and the Kennedy family." _ Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., in a statement. |