DES MOINES, Iowa – Queen Elizabeth II died Thursday at Balmoral Castle in Scotland at 96. She was the United Kingdom’s longest-serving monarch reigning 70 years after her coronation in 1952.
Several of Iowa’s elected officials responded to the news.
“Today we recognize the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II. She was a remarkable and steadfast woman who fought side by side with the United States through some of the Free World’s most trying times. I’ll always admire her fortitude, love of freedom, and tenacity that has inspired other women in leadership. Kevin and I join with Iowans in sharing our condolences to the Royal Family,” Gov. Kim Reynolds said in a released statement.
“Today I join the United Kingdom, the Royal Family, and the Commonwealth Realms, in mourning the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. For seven decades, she was a global stalwart and a resolute leader for the U.K.,” U.S. Senator Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, said in her released statement.
“Queen Elizabeth II was the steady foundation of the flourishing special relationship between our two nations, promoting freedom and peace alongside American leaders throughout history,” she added. “While we grieve her death, Queen Elizabeth II leaves behind an incredible, well-revered legacy. May she rest in peace.”
“Queen Elizabeth II was a strong and graceful leader for the better part of a century. As queen, she was a tremendous source of stability and clearly loved the people she served. She’ll forever be a symbol of decency and humanity for the whole world. Queen Elizabeth II leaves a remarkable legacy of duty, honor and service,” U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said in a released statement.
“Queen Elizabeth II led an incredible life, and I join millions around the globe mourning her devastating loss. The longest serving monarch in British history, her remarkable legacy will endure and her many contributions will always be celebrated. Our prayers are with the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom today,” U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson, R-Iowa, said in a released statement.
“Queen Elizabeth II devoted her life to serving her beloved nation with grace and humility for over 70 years. Through her tenure, the United Kingdom faced many triumphs and hardships, yet the Queen never wavered,” U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, said. “Queen Elizabeth set the standard for leaders around the globe, and her service will be remembered for generations to come. My heart goes out to her family during this difficult time.”