"New York has lost one of its greatest leaders with the passing of former Governor Mario Cuomo. I had the privilege to serve in the State Legislature while he was Governor, and I admired his love of public policy, politics and people. He was tenacious about the issues he was passionate about and was a truly gifted orator. The Democratic Party was stronger because of his leadership on a national level. My heartfelt condolences to his wife Matilda, Governor Andrew Cuomo and the entire Cuomo family."