RIP

Sad day.

For those new to the area, click here to read Congressman Ratchford's bio.

UPDATE: Attorney General-Elect George Jepsen released the following statement regarding the death of Congressman Ratchford

Bill Ratchford's passing this morning is sad for me personally and marks a loss for the people of Connecticut.

I got my start in politics working for Bill Ratchford. As a college student, I worked in his unsuccessful 1974 campaign for Congress, and managed his campaign in 1978 when he won the seat.

As House Speaker in the Connecticut General Assembly in the late 1960s, Bill Ratchford was an early advocate for high ethical standards and transparency in government. As a state legislator and congressman, he stood up to protect working families, the environment, and consumers. Finally, he was a kind, compassionate man, committed to his wife, Barbara, and to his family, who saw in public service the opportunity to help his community and enrich the lives of others. He will be missed.

Congressman Chris Murphy issued the following statement:

Bill Ratchford's advocacy for the elderly and his commitment to public service built a legacy that will live on in Danbury and communities across Connecticut. Shortly after I was sworn in to office, Bill came by to share some of his wisdom about the House of Representatives. More than twenty years had passed since he served in this seat, but his enthusiasm for policy and his passion for the people of Connecticut were just as strong as ever. He will be terribly missed, and my thoughts and prayers are with his wife Barbara and his family at this time.