The following is Mayor Thomas Menino's statement on the death of U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy:

"On behalf of the city of Boston, our thoughts and prayers go out to Vicki and the entire Kennedy family. Senator Kennedy was steadfast in his devotion to the people of our city, state and country, and he was never afraid of any battle. He was not only a champion in the Senate, fighting for the poor and underserved, but he was also my close friend. I will miss his friendship and his guidance.

"Senator Kennedy was the real deal – an authentic, principled and giving public servant who pushed us to work for things yet to be. His work eased our concerns, lifted us with opportunity and filled us with pride.

"Boston has never had a greater champion. Massachusetts has never known a more relentless fighter for economic and social justice. America has never witnessed a more influential and productive legislator."