CONSERVATIVES EXPRESS PROFOUND LOSS IN DEATH OF FORMER ILLINOIS REP. HENRY HYDE

ALEXANDRIA, VA –The American Conservative Union today issued the following statement concerning the death of former U.S. congressman Henry Hyde:

The American Conservative Union joins with millions of Americans of all political persuasions in expressing a profound sense of loss on the passing of former Representative Henry Hyde of Illinois.  Congressman Hyde was a powerful defender of life and an outspoken advocate for a strong national defense.  His wit, charm and fairness made him loved by both his political allies and his political opponents in congress.

Henry Hyde was a very special American – a good and decent man whose many contributions to his country will be forever remembered and cherished.

Just two years after being elected to the U.S. House in ’74, our very good friend and anti-abortion voice in Congress rose to prominence by attaching an amendment to a spending bill banning the use of federal funds to carry out abortions.  The "Hyde Amendment" has since become a fixture in the annual debate over federal spending, and has served as an important marker for abortion foes seeking to discourage women from terminating pregnancies.

We were fortunate to have our friend’s leadership in passing the ban on partial birth abortions, the first federal restriction on a specific abortion procedure. “The people we pretend to defend, the powerless, those who cannot escape, who cannot rise up in the streets, these are the ones that ought to be protected by the law,” he said during the 2003 debate. “The law exists to protect the weak from the strong.”

As Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, our no nonsense rule of law advocate led the House efforts to impeach President Bill Clinton in ’98. 

For his efforts in advancing conservative principles and policies, this tireless warrior received the prestigious John M. Ashbrook Award at the American Conservation Union’s annual Conservative Political Action Conference in 2005.

Henry Hyde was a true patriot. His service to his country was recognized just three weeks ago when President Bush awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom.  Henry’s passing leaves a big void for those of us who have had the pleasure of knowing a remarkable legislator and a wonderful friend.   

Our deepest sympathies go to his wife, Judy, his four children and his four grandchildren during this very difficult time. 

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