Gov. Jay Inslee issued the following statement following the news that Senator John McCain, Arizona’s senior Republican and the party’s 2008 nominee for president, passed away Saturday.

“The nation today said good-bye to one of its greatest heroes. Senator John McCain was a man who rightfully commanded the respect and admiration of every American, regardless of party or politics. He was a leader who served with unquestionable and unwavering love for his country.

“Trudi and I send our deepest condolences to Senator McCain’s family. His legacy will be among the most enduring of our time,” Inslee said.