The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) mourns the recent passing of Senator Harry Reid, a true leader who served as the United States Senator from Nevada from 1987 to 2017. Senator Reid worked hard to deliver on so many promises like the Affordable Care Act, ensuring that all people had access to health insurance. In addition to being a prominent Senator, he rose in the ranks to become Chairman of the Democratic Caucus in 2005 and Senate Majority Leader from 2007-2015, covering all of the Obama White House years. He will be remembered as an honest broker and forthright person from humble roots who always tried to see the good in people and solve problems for those in need, including people with disabilities.
“Senator Reid was an amazing politician who really cared about people. I remember a time when I was doing Partners in Policymaking training in Henderson, Nevada and Senator Reid came to join us on a weekend afternoon in his khakis and shirtsleeves. He spent a few hours with the students practicing how to have a good visit with a Member of Congress. Citizen advocacy and equality for all people, including those with disabilities, was very important to him – titles and fame were not. He was a legend in Congress and will forever be missed” said Donna Meltzer, CEO of the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities.
We mourn his passing and share our deepest condolences with his beloved wife and family. Senator Reid leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of patriotism and leadership that will leave its’ mark on both Congress and the country for decades to come.
