DALLAS -- State Senator Royce West (D-Dallas) joins the Richards family, Texas and America in mourning the loss of Ann Richards, Texas' 45th and first ever elected female governor. Ms. Richards succumbed Wednesday evening to a battle with esophageal cancer that she called another of the many "projects" that she took on. Senator West says that Gov. Richards style set her apart from other modern political leaders.

"Gov. Richards had many memorable and wonderful attributes that served her well in her various pursuits," said Senator West. "She was courageous, caring, candid, forthcoming and just a genuine person. She had this quality that made people gravitate toward her. And people believed - when speaking with her - that their concerns became hers."

"During the earlier years of Gov. Richard's political and professional careers, Texas and America's challenge to be more inclusive of women and minorities in leadership roles were even more pronounced than what exists today," said Senator West. "Ann Richards was up-front and unrelenting in her efforts to shatter the glass ceiling for those under-represented constituencies who were ready to meet opportunity. When young girls read of her role in Texas history, they will dare to dream their dreams, secure that Ann Richards blazed a path before them."

Even her political rivals must acknowledge that Texas and America are the better for her contributions. My family and I extend our heartfelt condolences to Gov. Richards family and those close to her."

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