On Saturday night, McCain’s body was transported to a North Central Phoenix mortuary. Upon its arrival, crowds awaited, passionately professing their love for the recently deceased senator.
McCain earned respect during his time as a prisoner of war in Vietnam, even refusing early release for the sake of not abandoning his fellow soldiers. Later, McCain’s political service earned him the title of a GOP “maverick.”
Shortly after the announcement of his death, various political leaders posted the following messages on social media:
I will need some time to absorb this, but I want Cindy —and the entire McCain family — to know they are in my prayers.
— Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) August 26, 2018
Our statement on the passing of Senator John McCain: pic.twitter.com/3GBjNYxoj5
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) August 26, 2018
.@SenJohnMcCain lived a life of service to his country, from his heroism in the Navy to 35 years in Congress. He was a tough politician, a trusted colleague, and there will simply never be another like him. My thoughts and prayers are with Cindy and his entire family.
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) August 26, 2018
My heart is broken. I am so lucky to have lived the adventure of loving this incredible man for 38 years. He passed the way he lived, on his own terms, surrounded by the people he loved, in the the place he loved best.
— Cindy McCain (@cindymccain) August 26, 2018
Trump also tweeted his own regards:
My deepest sympathies and respect go out to the family of Senator John McCain. Our hearts and prayers are with you!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 26, 2018
However, some of Trump’s critics slammed the president for his tweet, noting his past criticisms of McCain and his military service: