Ducey, Arizona senators among many to react to Grant Woods’ death

PHOENIX — Grant Woods, the former Arizona Attorney General and late Senator John McCain’s First Congressional Chief of Staff, died at the age of 67 Saturday.

This news sparked many reactions and messages from Arizona’s representatives.

“My deepest sympathies go out to the family and loved ones of Grant Woods,” Governor Doug Ducey said in a statement.

“He was well-known in the Arizona community for decades, including serving as Attorney General and a chief of staff to John McCain before moving on to private practice. Arizona honors his life and years of public service. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Marlene and five children.”

Former Governor Jan Brewer also spoke out after hearing the news:

I’m totally shocked to learn that my friend @GrantWoods passed away earlier today. Grant stood with me through many battles. We didn’t agree on everything, but he always fought for, defended and cheered for me. An honorable public servant who I will deeply miss. RIP Grant. 💔

— Jan Brewer (@GovBrewer) October 24, 2021

Arizona Senators Kyrsten Sinema and Mark Kelly made these statements on Twitter:

Grant Woods was an incredible Arizonan with a long record of public service to our state – and a friend whose support meant so much to me. His leadership helped deliver lasting results for Arizona over many years. I will miss him and my heart is with Marlene and their children.

— Kyrsten Sinema (@kyrstensinema) October 24, 2021

I’m so saddened by his loss. He was a source of advice and support. Arizona will miss him, and @GabbyGiffords and I offer our condolences to his wife and children, and the many who have known him over the years.

— Senator Mark Kelly (@SenMarkKelly) October 24, 2021

Woods served as Attorney General from 1991-99.

He found more ways to impact his community by founding the Mesa Boys and Girls Club, The Mesa Education Foundation and the Mesa Arts Academy.

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley tweeted, “Our Boys & Girls Clubs family extends our most heartfelt condolences to the Woods family. Grant Woods modeled service for young people and mentored so many through his career.”

Other notable reactions to Saturday’s news:

Attorney General Mark Brnovich:

“Heartbreaking to learn of the passing of Grant Woods. I can’t imagine how difficult this time is for his entire family. Grant will never be forgotten. He was never one to back down or afraid to let you know what he was thinking. Even though we had many “spirited” discussions throughout our friendship, I never doubted his love for Arizona. I know there’s a jam session going on right now with him, Charlie Watts, and John Prine.”

Rep. Aaron Lieberman:

“Attorney General Woods was a leader who put the needs of the people he served before anything else. To his core, this was a man of principle armed with a passion for doing what was right for the people of Arizona.

“Mr. Woods’ unselfish devotion to duty will serve as a hallmark of his enduring legacy.

“This loss comes too soon and is immensely heartbreaking. My family and I are holding his family in our thoughts and wish them strength during this difficult time.”

Arizona House Democratic Leader Reginald Bolding:

“Grant Woods was an Arizona original who fought every day to better our state. He dedicated his life to public service and was a constant voice of reason when we needed it most. He was fiercely independent- always making the right choice over the easy one.

As the state’s top law enforcement officer, he proved what a brilliant legal mind he was taking on Big Tobacco and countless others.

He leaves behind a lasting impact on our state by showing us what it truly meant to serve your community. He will be sorely missed. We send our thoughts to his wife, Marlene, their children, and the entire Woods family.”

Country before party. Truth above convenience. A stand-up guy when things seemed to be falling down around us. And never one to miss a good laugh. Thanks, @GrantWoods, for a legacy that lives on. Prayers for comfort and peace for his family. pic.twitter.com/gFGCAI6T3o

— Rep. Lorenzo Sierra (@Sierra4AZ) October 24, 2021

My heart breaks hearing this news, Grant Woods was a man with great conviction, conscience and integrity. Grant stood out and stood up for what was right. Arizona is better because of him. I send my respect and heart to the Woods family. https://t.co/yT8EocdbXR

— Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (@RepKirkpatrick) October 24, 2021

I’m shocked and saddened to learn that Grant Woods passed away earlier today. My thoughts are with his loved ones. pic.twitter.com/tlm7kUuIlQ

— Rep. Greg Stanton (@RepGregStanton) October 24, 2021

Truly shocked and saddened to learn of Grant Woods passing. One of the best experiences of my legal career was going to trial with him and fighting for our client. He was a good man and a damn fine trial lawyer. My deepest condolences to his family and many friends.

— Rep. Diego Rodriguez (@Diego4Justice) October 24, 2021

Grant Woods was the embodiment of leadership. He was dedicated to serving the people of Arizona no matter how it served him politically. I’m incredibly grateful to have known him. He will be missed, and I’m praying for his family and loved ones. https://t.co/SqAc3u2ZCW

— Ruben Gallego (@RepRubenGallego) October 24, 2021

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