WASHINGTON, Sept. 17 -- Sen. Mitch McConnell issued the following press release:

U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement today regarding the passing of Senator Jon Kyl:

"I was so sorry to learn of the passing of my good friend and former colleague, Jon Kyl.

"It is not often that the Senate is blessed by the talents of such a devoted and capable public servant twice over. Jon lent a capacious mind and bottomless energy to efforts as diverse as missile defense and western water rights. His well-deserved reputation for straight shooting made him a highly effective vote counter as Republican Whip. And his humble work ethic made everyone around him look better.

"So, grateful for his friendship and service, Elai...