WASHINGTON, Feb. 17 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today released the following statement:

Jesse Jackson, a friend and ally of mine for almost 40 years, has passed away.

Reverend Jackson was one of the great and transformative political leaders in modern American history. He has broken down more barriers than most people could dream of doing. 

Jackson was a courageous civil rights leader who put his life on the line in the fight against segregation and racism — in the north as well as the south.

His extraordinary campaigns for president opened the door for Black candidates across the country — from Barack Obama to senators and governors.

His creation of the Rainbow Coalition, a revolutionary idea at the time, that developed a grassroots movement of working people — Black, white, Latino, Asian-American, Native-American, gay and straight — laid the foundation for the modern progressive movement which is continuing to fight for his vision of economic, racial, social and environmental justice.

The Reverend Jesse Jackson has had a profound impact upon our country. His politics of togetherness and solidarity should guide us going forward.  

Let us honor his life by continuing the struggle.

Jane and I send our condolences to his wonderful family.