Reactions from both major political parties to the death of Keith Crisco came in not long after news reports confirmed that the former commerce secretary and 2nd Congressional District Democratic candidate had died.
Randy Voller, chairman of the state Democratic Party, released the following statement:
“I got to know Secretary Crisco when Governor Perdue appointed him to be her Secretary of Commerce. Keith was a brilliant problem solver who liked to make good, solid public policy. He would have made a great Congressman and I know he felt strongly that the 2nd Congressional District needed new leadership in Washington. The Democratic family and North Carolina has lost a strong leader and our condolences go out to the Crisco family and community.”
Clay Aiken, who was leading last week’s primary race with Crisco, posted this on his campaign Twitter feed:
“I am stunned and deeply saddened by Keith Crisco’s death. He was a gentleman, a good and honorable man and an extraordinary public servant.”
Second District Congresswoman Renee Ellmers, a Republican, said:
“I am deeply saddened by this sudden and painful tragedy and wish God’s blessings for Keith’s family through the coming days. His kindness and dedication to his principles were models we should all strive toward, and he will be dearly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Keith’s family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Said Sen. Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, president pro-tem of the Senate:
“I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Commerce Secretary Keith Crisco. Secretary Crisco was a good man who was committed to doing all he could to improve job opportunities for the people of this state. I consider it a privilege to have worked with him, and my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”
House Speaker Thom Tillis, R-Mecklenburg, had this reaction:
“My deepest condolences go out to the Crisco family on the passing of one of our state’s most widely-respected public officials, Keith Crisco. I was honored to work with him on many issues that positively impacted the people of North Carolina, and I was struck by his professionalism and dedication to the citizens he served. He never wavered in his determination to improve the state he was so proud to call home. We will keep his family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
Josh Lawson, a spokesman for the State Board of Elections, released this statement:
“The State Board of Elections is saddened to hear of the passing of Keith Crisco. A native of North Carolina, we are grateful for Mr. Crisco’s service to our state and his community through the years. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Crisco family during this difficult time.”
Crisco died at his Asheboro home Monday. Early reports said he had received injuries from a fall.
