New England Lawmakers React to Death of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia

Throughout his tenure as a Supreme Court justice, Antonin Scalia was a lightning rod, frequently making controversial statements on issues like affirmative action, gay rights and abortion. And while many of New England's lawmakers may not always have agreed with him, they expressed tremendous respect after his passing on Saturday.

"While I differed with Justice Scalia's views and jurisprudence, he was a brilliant, colorful and outspoken member of the Supreme Court," Democratic presidential candidate and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders said in a statement. "My thoughts and prayers are with his family and his colleagues on the court who mourn his passing."

Sanders wasn't the only local lawmaker who, despite sharp differences of opinions, shared thoughtful condolences for the late justice.

"Justice Scalia was a remarkable jurist who dedicated his life to the law and the Constitution," wrote Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts.

"The son of an immigrant, dedicated public servant, acerbic wit, and gifted writer and orator, Justice Scalia lived a uniquely-American life," echoed Connecticut Sen. Richard Blumenthal.

My thoughts and prayers are with Justice Scalia's family and his colleagues on the court who mourn his passing. pic.twitter.com/Y51xUMMEId

— Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) February 13, 2016

Regional Republicans also made their respect for Scalia known. Maine Gov. Paul LePage called him "a great man who served this nation well."

"The Supreme Court has lost an incredible public servant, one with integrity and a brilliant mind," he continued. "Rest in Peace Justice Scalia, your wisdom and presence on the Supreme Court will be missed."

"I am deeply saddened by Justice Scalia's sudden passing," wrote Sen. Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire. "Our country has lost a staunch defender of our Constitution and a brilliant jurist."

President Obama, who announced his plans to nominate Scalia's replacement, referred to the justice as "one of the towering legal figures of our time," explaining that he dedicated his life "to the cornerstone of our democracy, the rule of law."

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