Grand Canyon Times

Senate Republicans have expressed their condolences following the death of Sandra Day O'Connor, a former U.S. Supreme Court Justice and Arizona State Senate Majority Leader. O'Connor, who grew up in southeastern Arizona, made history as the first woman to serve as Republican Majority Leader for the Arizona State Senate in 1972. She was nominated by President Ronald Reagan to become the first female justice on the U.S. Supreme Court.

"Sandra Day O'Connor was an impactful conservative and a trailblazer who displayed the epitome of a hardworking public servant, a dedicated mother, and inspired many women to pursue leadership roles within the legislative and judicial branches of government," said Senate President Warren Petersen. "She broke barriers throughout her career, becoming the first woman to serve as Majority Leader for Republicans at the Arizona State Senate and setting the stage for others to follow in her footsteps. The example she set on civil discourse is to be admired. We're saddened by the loss of this icon, and our hearts go out to O'Connor's family, but we take comfort in knowing she'll have lasting positive impacts on our state and nation for generations to come."

For further details, Kim Quintero from the Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus can be contacted at kquintero@azleg.gov.