I had a chance to get to know Tim Carpenter over the years-- face to face meetings, interviews, participating in an event he ran. Tim was an extraordinary bottom-up leader and organizer who made good things happen, in spite of contending with illness. He was a man who lived life in a constant mode of fast forward-- you just had to hear him speak to know this. What a mind. What a heart.
Rep. Ellison Statement on the Passing of Tim Carpenter
WASHINGTON--Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) released the following statement today after the passing of Tim Carpenter, Founder and National Director of Progressive Democrats of America and a longtime public interest activist:
"I am deeply saddened by the news that my friend Tim passed today. My thoughts are with his family, especially his wife and loving daughters. No one can ever replace him.
"The progressive movement is driven by people, but it is only successful because of people like Tim Carpenter. Tim didn't know how to quit. He was a champion and a big thinker who worked to focus our politics on improving people's lives. When faced with an impossible task, Tim showed the kind of determination and courage that was contagious. His passionate idealism was matched only by his inexhaustible commitment to making those dreams a reality. He spent his life paying it forward.
"We are all in debt to Tim for his life's work. Some Americans getting better health care, while others have returned home safely from war. We are better off today because Tim Carpenter dedicated every part of himself to building a better future for all Americans. I know the Progressive Democrats of America will continue his work.
"In gratitude, Tim."
