MINNEAPOLIS – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar released the following statement after the passing of former Minnesota Congressman Jim Ramstad.

“Minnesota lost a friend and hero — former Republican Congressman Jim Ramstad. He was a faithful public servant who worked across party lines to improve the lives of all Americans. He worked with Senator Paul Wellstone on mental health parity legislation and carried the torch to pass the bill after Paul died. I got to see Jim’s effectiveness firsthand when I worked with him on domestic violence issues and drug courts and funding for addiction programs. He was a true mentor to me on how to get things done by working with Republicans and Democrats.

“By being honest about his own personal struggle with alcoholism, Jim gave so many people courage to take on their own addictions. I will miss him very much.”

CAPTION: Senator Klobuchar and Congressman Ramstad at a drug court event in Washington D.C.

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