Ginsburg, who was 87 years old, was a champion for women’s rights and was the second woman to sit on the high court of the United States. The death of Ginsburg sets up a heated political debate over whether the GOP-led Senate and Donald Trump should swiftly confirm a replacement or wait until after the six-week national election. The debate will also include Mississippi’s two GOP senators. Below are the reactions of Mississippi leaders to the death of the lauded justice: U.S. Senator Roger Wicker: “I was saddened to hear of Justice Ginsburg’s death. Her brilliant intellect and passion for equality made her an iconic figure for millions of Americans. Although I disagreed with Justice Ginsburg’s views, I never doubted her sincerity and motives. Her close friendship with Justice Antonin Scalia, the late Justice Antonin Scalia, is an excellent example of how we all can work with others and respect them. U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde Smith: “Justice Ginsburg dedicated her life to law and became a respected, influential woman in our times. May she rest in peace. Mike Espy (Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate): “Mike Espy” and the Espy campaign for Senate are deeply saddened at the loss of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She was one of the most respected legal minds in the country. Justice Ginsburg, the second woman ever to sit on the Supreme Court of the United States was a legend. She will be remembered as one of the greatest justices in American history. Justice Ginsburg, despite battling her health for many years, put her duty to the country and the law first. She was a trailblazer in legal advocacy, fighting for those less fortunate and ensuring protections for voting rights, gender equality, health care, and civil rights. Justice Ginsburg will always leave her mark on this nation and on the lives and actions of Americans.” U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson. “Rest in Peace to one the greatest legal minds, jurists and lawyers in American history.” As more statements become available, this article will be updated. To support this important work, make a regular donation to the Spring Member Drive today.