Ed Koch, the larger-than-life politician who rescued the city from near-financial ruin during a three-term City Hall run, died of congestive heart failure Friday, Feb. 1, at the age of 88.
Here, New Yorkers — from politicians to reporters to friends, family and voters — share their reflections on the former mayor's life and legacy:
Mayor Bloomberg: "In elected office and as a private citizen, he was our most tireless, fearless, and guileless civic crusader. Through his tough, determined leadership and responsible fiscal stewardship, Ed helped lift the city out of its darkest days and set it on course for an incredible comeback. We will miss him dearly, but his good works – and his wit and wisdom – will forever be a part of the city he loved so much."
The Rev. Al Sharpton: "Although we argued about everything from my marching in Bensonhurst, to Florida and Trayvon Martin, and although we disagreed on politics from his views on President Obama to other matters, I have found that he was never a phony or a hypocrite. He would not patronize or deceive you. He said what he meant. He meant what he said. He fought for what he believed.”
Gov. Andrew Cuomo: "Mr. Mayor was never one to shy away from taking a stand that he believed was right, no matter what the polls said or what was politically correct ... I will miss his friendship, and we will all miss his perpetual optimism and tireless commitment to continually striving to improve our city, state, nation and world."
Attorney General Eric Schneiderman: "As a lifelong New Yorker, it's hard to imagine this city without Ed Koch. We will miss his keen mind, sharp wit, and absolute devotion to making a great city the best in the world. While we mourn his loss, we know that the legacy of his mayoralty, his commitment to civil rights and affordable housing, and his civic leadership long after he left City Hall, will live on for generations."
Manhattan DA Cy Vance: “New York would not be the safest big city in America today if Ed Koch hadn’t spearheaded one of the most important criminal justice reforms in New York City’s history as mayor: selecting criminal court judges based on merit instead of political connections. Every New Yorker has the right to walk the streets of our city without fear and all New Yorkers deserve equal access to justice. We’d be far, far further from these goals today if not for Mayor Ed Koch’s foresight and vision and courage."
Rep. Peter King: "Ed Koch was a true friend and trusted advisor. Ed Koch personified the spirit of New York. New York’s 'Mayor for Life' is now New York’s 'Mayor for Eternity.' May he rest in peace.”
Photo Credit: FILE / AP