Republicans, Dems Alike Honor Roger Ailes — 'It's Really a Loss'

Former president George H.W. Bush said he loved Roger Ailes, and a Democrat remembered the former Fox News chairman for his love of America.

Former Democratic Rep. Dennis Kucinich praised and remembered Ailes, who died Thursday, for his commitment to America as well.

"This is a personal loss. I want to say that Roger and I had different perspectives. The one thing we agreed on was our love of country," Kucinich said on Fox News' "Happening Now."

"He loved America very deeply, totally committed and had a perspective that when we shared it, it wasn't about compromise, it was about understanding and respect and a basis for building a direction for the country," the former Ohio congressman said. "Roger Ailes was a close friend of mine and I'm going to miss him. I tell you, it's really a loss."

The former president was among Republicans who took to Twitter to express his sympathy:

He wasn't perfect, but Roger Ailes was my friend & I loved him. Not sure I would have been President w/o his great talent, loyal help. RIP.

— George Bush (@GeorgeHWBush) May 18, 2017

Deeply saddened by death of Roger Ailes. He had many critics and like ALL of us his sins, but I remember a great patriot, friend and boss.

— Gov. Mike Huckabee (@GovMikeHuckabee) May 18, 2017

Ideological rival Al Sharpton also lamented the loss:

I've known Roger Ailes for over 30 years. We've fought, debated and exchanged war stories. He had real passion and a master strategist for

— Reverend Al Sharpton (@TheRevAl) May 18, 2017

what he believed. We didn't agree on much and I protested him many times. However his impact on US Culture is undeniable. He is a study !

— Reverend Al Sharpton (@TheRevAl) May 18, 2017

Roger Ailes died this morning, our deepest sympathies to Beth and his son Zach. Roger was a media genius, good friend and great American.

— Lou Dobbs (@LouDobbs) May 18, 2017

Roger Ailes founded one of the most important and successful media outlets in American history. I will miss his friendship dearly. RIP.

— Laura Ingraham (@IngrahamAngle) May 18, 2017

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