CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Two members of Illinois’ congressional delegation are remembering Colin Powell as a statesman by praising him for his role in history and willingness to look beyond party labels.
Powell, a four-star general who became the first black Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, died Monday from complications of COVID-19.
The Associated Press reports that Powell, 84, had been treated over the past few years for multiple myeloma, a blood cancer that impairs the body’s ability to fight infections -- and to respond well to vaccines.
Congressman Brad Schneider came to Capitol Hill after Powell had retired from public service but the north suburban democrat said he long admired the former secretary of state.
"His sense of duty to the country across the board is always been something that I think that all of us should hold in high regard and hold as a goal for each of us."
Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky was critical of Powell’s push for the Bush administration’s War on Terror after the September 11th attacks, but said she treasured him.
"We disagreed about the war in Iraq, but I respected him so very much."
Once considered a top potential candidate for the Republican presidential nomination, Schakowsky was elated that Powell later came to support Democrats and called out Republicans at times.
"For him to find offense from the past president-from President Trump really did not surprise me, but I was grateful to hear his voice," she said.
Congressman Brad Schneider said he admired Powell as a trailblazer who endorsed Barack Obama in 2008 before eventually leaving the GOP.
"He was someone who broke through barriers, but opened doors for others at the same time."
Schakowsky said that in examining Powell’s life, she hopes more people will take inspiration from his decisions to look beyond political party.
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