Sen. Edward M. Kennedy has lost his battle with brain cancer and past away just before midnight on Tuesday in his home in Hyannis Port, Mass.  Sen. Kennedy was known as the “Liberal Lion” of the Senate.  He served over forty years in the Senate.  Sen. Kennedy was born in 1932 and was 77 years old.    Sen. Kennedy is survived by three children, two step children, his wife Victoria, his sister, and his grandchildren.  His family released the following statement:

“Edward M. Kennedy – the husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle we loved so deeply – died late Tuesday night at home in Hyannis Port,” the statement said. “We’ve lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever. We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness and opportunity for all. He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it. He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it’s hard to imagine any of them without him.”