Ann Richards was a fiesty one, a witty, direct and spirited leader who refered to Dubya as "Shrub" and addressed the 1988 DNC with the memorable description of Poppy Bush "Poor George, he was born with a silver foot in his mouth!"

- She will be missed.

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Washington, DC - Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean issued the following statement on the passing of former Texas Governor Ann Richards:

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Richards family as we mourn the loss of a true trailblazer and beloved member of the Democratic Party," said DNC Chairman Howard Dean. "Governor Richards may be best known for her quick wit and sense of humor, but people in Texas know she created the most diverse government in the state's history at the time, fought for public schools and advocated for people struggling with substance abuse problems. Today, we celebrate the life of a woman whose commitment to public service and the people of Texas was as big as her spirit. The country will remember her with fondness and admiration."