Former U.S. Sen. Nancy Kassebaum Baker has died at 94.

Here's what Kansas politicians and political leaders are saying about her life and public service.

U.S. Rep. Derek Schmidt, R-Kansas, represents the 2nd Congressional District.

"Kansas awoke to sad news this morning," Schmidt said. "Senator Kassebaum introduced this kid from a small Southeast Kansas town to opportunities for public service I had not known possible. I worked for her five years and came away with cherished memories and friends who will last a lifetime. For her early mentorship, inspiration and example, I will always be deeply grateful."

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, is the state's junior senator.

"Saddened to hear of the passing of Senator Kassebaum," Marshall said. "She was a true Kansan who dedicated years of her life to serving our state and made history as Kansas' first woman to serve in the U.S. Senate. Laina and I are keeping her family and loved ones in our prayers."

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Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover, is the GOP nominee for governor.

"Nancy Landon Kassebaum Baker, who hailed from a legendary political family, served Kansas herself with independence and decency for nearly two decades, then came home to the Flint Hills she loved," Masterson said. "Kansas is grateful for her service. Marlo and I are praying for her family and all who loved her."

Vicki Schmidt is the state insurance commissioner.

"Kansas just lost a legend," Schmidt said. "She paved the way for women in public service all across America, but especially in Kansas. We are better because of her service! I hope she is at peace and that she Bob Dole have reunited to tell stories, because they really were the best stories!"

Kansas House Speaker Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, is running for insurance commissioner.

"Senator Nancy Kassebaum Baker leaves behind a remarkable legacy of service to Kansas and our nation," Hawkins said. "During her 18 years in the U.S. Senate, she represented our state with distinction and earned the respect of Kansans across generations. My prayers are with her family, friends, and all those who knew and loved Senator Kassebaum during this difficult time."

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Matt Schlapp is the chair of the American Conservative Union.

"Nancy Landon Kassebaum has died," Schlapp said. "She was an honest public servant. I was a staffer in the KS delegation and she sure drove us nuts with her irregular GOP support in the Senate. But she was kind, dutiful and always loved the people of Kansas. May she rest in peace."

(This story was updated to add new information.)

Jason Alatidd is a Statehouse reporter for The Topeka Capital-Journal. He can be reached by email at [email protected]. Follow him on X @Jason_Alatidd.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: How Kansas politicians are reacting to Nancy Kassebaum Baker's death