Clinton, Bush, Boxer...The World Reacts To Bin Laden's Death
LOS ANGELES (CBS) — What was that old saying about good news traveling fast? Politicians reacting to good news might happen even faster.
Moments after President Obama announced the US had killed Osama Bin Laden, after an almost ten-year manhunt, former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush as well as New York's Mayor Michael Bloomberg and California Senator Dianne Feinstein were among the first to weigh in with reaction.
"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. " Former Pres. George W. Bush
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.
"I congratulate the president, the National Security team and the members of our armed forces on bringing Osama Bin Laden to justice after more than a decade of murderous al-Qaeda attacks." Former Pres. Bill Clinton
"Almost ten years ago, after the horrific attacks of 9/11, I voted to go after Osama Bin Laden to make sure justice prevailed. Today the world knows that he has paid the ultimate price for what he did.
"His death doesn't lessen the tragic loss of all those killed by al Qaeda, or the pain of their loved ones, but it closes a chapter on his unspeakable act.
"I thank the President for his determination and I thank all the brave members of our Armed Forces who risked everything to carry out this mission of justice." California Senator Dianne Feinstein
"After September 11, 2001, we gave our word as Americans that we would stop at nothing to capture or kill Osama Bin Laden. After the contribution of millions, including so many who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, we have kept that word.
The killing of Osama Bin Laden does not lessen the suffering that New Yorkers and Americans experienced at his hands, but it is a critically important victory for our nation - and a tribute to the millions of men and women in our armed forces and elsewhere who have fought so hard for our nation.
New Yorkers have waited nearly 10 years for this news. It is my hope that it will bring some closure and comfort to all those who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001." New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg
"Tonight, we owe a tremendous amount of gratitude to the brave men and women who serve under our flag around the world, as well as to our Commander in Chief for his unwavering leadership. This announcement tonight by President Obama that Osama Bin Laden has been killed is indeed historic, but we must continue to be vigilant and remain on guard against those that still seek to harm us.
We must also recognize that members of the Muslim community are and have been our partners against terrorism. They have worked side by side with us for years, and we have stood together against hatred and united as one nation against terrorism. Although we will never forget the tragic events of 9/11, tonight we recognize this significant milestone in the healing process of our nation and we thank all those across the country and around the world who are hard at work to keep us safe." Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa
"Tonight, Americans can be grateful that President Obama brought Bin Laden to justice. Our friends as well as our adversaries throughout the world can be assured of America's resolve in combating terrorism and protecting the values of democracy and freedom." California Governor Jerry Brown
"Today the world knows that he has paid the ultimate price for what he did. His death doesn't lessen the tragic loss of all those killed by Al-Qaeda, or the pain of their loved ones, but it closes a chapter on his unspeakable act." California Senator Barbara Boxer
