WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa today released the following statement regarding the passing of former U.S. Sen. John C. Culver of Iowa.

“My wife Barbara and I were sorry to hear about Senator Culver’s passing. He served his country in the Marine Corps and continued his devotion to public service throughout his life, representing Iowa in both chambers of Congress for 16 years

“Senator Culver was a tough competitor. He was proud of his record and defended it, not sacrificing his stands for political expediency, and that deserves to be recognized. Personally, I’ll never forget his grace and good wishes after the election of 1980 and when we would cross paths over time afterward.

“My thoughts are with his friends and family as I join all Iowans in mourning the loss of a devoted public servant.”

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