State Rep. Rick Noriega has issued the following statement on the passing on Lady Bird Johnson:

"Melissa and I were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Lady Bird Johnson this afternoon. She represented the best of Texas - larger-than-life, open-hearted, confident, idealistic. Millions of her fellow Americans were touched by her kindness and her warmth. In her calm, positive way, she worked to beautify America and to improve the lives of all its citizens, especially children. Her legacy will survive and enrich Texas and this nation through the ages."

Out of respect for her passing, Representative Noriega has postponed the announcement of the formation of his U.S. Senate exploratory committee until Monday morning, July 16, 2007, at 11:00 a.m. CDT. The announcement is still scheduled for the Heroes of the Alamo monument near the south steps of the Texas Capitol Building.