Florida’s two U.S. senators paid tribute this week to Sheldon Adelson, a prominent supporter of Israel, a major Republican donor and the chairman and CEO of Las Vegas Sands, who passed away at age 87.
U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., praised Adelson’s rags to riches story on Tuesday.
“Sheldon Adelson was a larger than life figure in American politics, but more than that, he was a philanthropist, a job creator, and a man of faith,” Rubio said. “The story of his life is that of an immigrant son who came from Boston’s ‘Jewish ghetto’ to achieve the American Dream. Through his leadership and philanthropy, he created jobs for and provided hope and opportunity to countless individuals in America and beyond. Our prayers are with Sheldon’s family, including his children and grandchildren, and his incredible wife Miriam.”
U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., also praised Adelson on Tuesday.
“Yesterday, our country has lost a giant of business, a man of principle and one of America’s great philanthropists. My heart goes out to Miriam and the entire Adelson family. Miriam was his partner in everything that he did and you could tell how much he loved and respected her whenever you were around him,” Scott said.
Scott also stressed Adelson’s support of Israel and his efforts to battle anti-Semitism.
“Over the years, I got to know Sheldon through his work on combating drug use and his efforts to support and defend Israel, causes that he dedicated his life to. He did everything in his power to make sure the world never forgot the horrors of the Holocaust or allowed the evil of anti-Semitism to go unchallenged. His commitment to freedom, security and opportunity for all was only matched by the passion with which he pursued that commitment. He changed the lives of millions and will forever be remembered as a leader who dedicated his life to the betterment of his country, the nation of Israel and the world,” Scott said.
Reach Kevin Derby at kevin.derby@floridadaily.com.
