WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today reflected on the passing of U.S. Representative Alcee L. Hastings, D-Fla. Hastings and Wicker served together on the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the U.S. Helsinki Commission.

“As chairman of the Helsinki Commission, Alcee Hastings was a powerful partner in advocating for the United States, human rights, democracy, and international cooperation,” Wicker said. “He broke barriers on the international stage as the first American elected to lead the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly while championing the interests of his constituents in Washington. Even as he battled cancer, he was never distracted or deterred from his public service. Gayle and I extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and staff during this difficult time.”