SIOUX FALLS S.D. (KELO) — South Dakotans are reacting to the news of the death former three-term Senator Tim Johnson, who died Tuesday at the age of 77.
Johnson had more than 30 years of public service in state and federal government and remains the last Democrat to serve in statewide office for South Dakota. Johnson never lost an election as a candidate.
His family said Johnson died after complications from a recent stroke.
“Tim always quipped that neither the left, nor the right, had a monopoly on all of the good ideas, but that working together, we can find common ground for the good of our country,” the Johnson family said in a statement. “In his work and life, Tim showed us never to give up. He will be missed. Our lives are fuller for having been loved and supported by him.”
Drey Samuelson, former chief of staff
On social media, Samuelson said “there’s nothing easy about saying goodbye to someone we loved and admired so much, but the truth is that Tim Johnson will live on in our hearts forever, and he will also live on in the lives that we touch ourselves, in the days to come.”
“It’s hard to imagine someone living a life more meaningful and impactful than Tim’s – and, in the end, impact and meaning are the best that any of us can hope to achieve. Tim succeeded in reaching those goals way beyond what I’m sure were his wildest dreams when he was a young man. But that success obviously doesn’t make saying goodbye to him any easier, I know, and there’s nothing that anyone can say that will help that, much as I wish otherwise.”
Republican Sen. John Thune
In a statement, Thune said he and his wife, Kimberley are joining South Dakotans in mourning the loss of Sen. Johnson.
““Known for his tenacity and work ethic, Tim was a steadfast leader who dedicated his life to serving the people of South Dakota with integrity and compassion,” Thune said in a statement. “He fought tirelessly for rural America and leaves a legacy that will have a lasting impact for years to come. We are praying for Barbara and their entire family and know that Tim’s remarkable life will continue to inspire future generations.”
Republican Sen. Mike Rounds
On a post on X, Rounds said Johnson’s love for South Dakota was “undeniable.”
“His loss will be felt across the state, but particularly by his wife Barbara and family. Praying for Tim’s family and all who knew and loved him,” Rounds said.
Republican Rep. Dusty Johnson
In a post on X, Dusty Johnson said Senator Tim Johnson “worked hard for South Dakota and America for decades.”
“I’m saddened to hear of his passing and am praying for his family and loved ones,” Johnson said.
Republican Gov. Kristi Noem
In a news release announcing flags would remain at half-staff until Johnson’s interment, Noem said “on behalf of the State of South Dakota, our prayers go out to his entire family.”
“I worked with Tim Johnson and appreciated that his heart was for the people of South Dakota. He was a true servant,” Noem said in a statement.
South Dakota Democratic Party
In a statement on X, the South Dakota Democratic Party said all the members of the party are “heartbroken by the passing of former Sen. Tim Johnson.”
“He embodied what it means to be a public servant by improving infrastructure, agriculture and healthcare. He worked hard everyday for all South Dakotans. He will be greatly missed,” the statement said.
This is a developing story.
