“I was very saddened to hear of the passing of Senator James Seward on Saturday. Sen. Seward was more than a friend and mentor to me; he & Cindy have been like family since I was a teenager. He was one of the greatest statesmen to ever walk the halls of Albany.

In my service to others, it is my hope that I can live up to half the reputation and respect he earned. All of us who were represented by him in the Senate and all those across this state touched by his good deeds were blessed to have him in our lives.

My thoughts & prayers are with Cindy and the entire Seward family. May God bless them in their time of mourning and may God bless my friend, Senator James Seward. Thank you for all you did for me. I miss your advice, your counsel, and above all your friendship. Until we meet again.”