Members of the state's congressional delegation have released statements reacting to Jesse Helms' death.
Rep. Bob Etheridge, a Lillington Democrat:
Senator Helms dedicated his life to serving the people of North Carolina. Whether people agreed or disagreed with him, Senator Helms would always let his constituents know where he stood on the important issues of the day. My condolences go out to his family, his wife, his children and his grandchildren.
Rep. Virginia Foxx, a Banner Elk Republican:
Senator Helms was the truest of patriots. His passion for conservative principles and the vigor with which he pursued them was second to none. I consider Senator Helms to be a mentor and dear friend. He dedicated his life to ensuring that the America he knew and loved would remain a strong beacon of freedom in a tumultuous world. Senator Helms leaves behind a strong legacy of fighting for the freedoms that make America great, even in the face of the strongest of foes.
Today my thoughts and prayers go out to those Senator Helms left behind. I pray that God's comfort might be with all of his loved ones during this difficult time.
Rep. Patrick McHenry, a Cherryville Republican:
This morning, America lost a great conservative leader and North Carolina lost the greatest political leader it has ever known. The compassion and principle of Jesse Helms earned him respect and admiration across the political spectrum and in foreign capitals around the world. This Fourth of July let us celebrate both our independence and the life's work of this great man. A grateful nation sends its prayers to the Helms family.

U.S. Rep.
Supreme Court Justice