Jack Kemp's political achievements as a congressman, HUD secretary, and candidate for America's top office have garnered him a lot of respect and admiration on both sides of the aisle. That political legacy is how he'll be remembered nationally.
Kemp was a true public servant and at the cornerstone of his service were ideas. "I think he will be remembered for his advocacy of ideas," said former U.S. Congressman John LaFalce.
"Jack's idea of growth-oriented policies for the economy was something he spent his whole life building upon," said longtime friend Russ Gugino, who was Kemp's District Administrative Assistant during his congressional years.
Kemp promoted policies that fostered growth and opportunity and he was known for his energy and enthusiasm. "I don't think there was ever a problem too small or too big for Jack Kemp to jump in, going a 100 mph to get it solved," said former U.S. Congressman Jack Quinn.
"He was a great competitor, that can-do attitude, that constant striving, is what made him an all-star," said LaFalce.
And Democrats credit Jack Kemp as being someone who was willing to forge bipartisan relationships. "Jack was the easiest to serve with because he wanted to work with you," said LaFalce.
"I think a lot of people on either side of the aisle saw him as dedicated to principle, and not politics. And that's one of the reasons why he was so revered," said Gugino.
And in the cutthroat world of politics where its easy to become negative, Jack Kemp always stayed positive. "Jack was a class act from the first moment I knew him, until the end," said LaFalce.
The people we talked to today pointed to Kemp's football days as the foundation for his inclusive-brand of politics. He spent his early years playing with minority players and many think those life experiences served him well later in life, especially when he was chosen by former President George H.W. Bush to head up the Office of Housing and Urban Development.
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