"My wife, Gert, and I are deeply saddened by the death of our friend, Eli Segal.

Eli dedicated his life to building a better America and his vision and energy were an inspiration to me. We will always be grateful for the leadership Eli demonstrated on our campaign in 2004. He was the heart and soul of that campaign.

He gave us so much of himself and even though I'm sure it must have seemed a thankless task at times, I will always be grateful to him.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Eli's wife, Phyllis, and their family at this most difficult time. America has lost a patriot and visionary and I have lost a dear friend."