"I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ellen Tauscher.  She was a leader for our party and our country, a trusted colleague, and a dear friend.  A patriot, she served her country nobly in pursuit of a stronger national security, justice for all, and greater prosperity for the American people.  I strongly supported Ellen when she ran for the House in 1996, and later, as Chair of the New Democrat Coalition, she helped promote bipartisanship and consensus-driven policies that built trust with voters in every part of our country.   “During her six terms in the House, Ellen fought for opportunities for the people of Northern California, supporting science research at its world-class laboratories, encouraging entrepreneurship and job growth, and covering children under affordable health insurance.  As Chair of the Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, she worked hard to ensure the safety and effectiveness of our nuclear deterrent and maintain our military technological edge against our adversaries.  Later, as President Obama's Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, Ellen worked closely with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton as lead negotiator to achieve the New START treaty with Russia limiting the deployment of offensive nuclear weapons.  In doing so, she drew on her expertise to ensure a strong pact that protects hundreds of millions of lives around the world.   "Ellen faced health challenges in recent years as courageously as she fought for the security of our country and the well-being of her constituents.  Her passing is a blow to California, to the many who served with her in the House, and to our country.  I will never forget her friendship, her kindness, and her tenacity.  I extend my condolences to Ellen's daughter Katherine and the entire Tauscher family."