WASHINGTON — 

U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Republican Conference, issued the following statement after Justice Anthony Kennedy announced his retirement from the Supreme Court of the United States:  

“Justice Kennedy’s dedication to the law led him to a career of distinguished service to his country. He is widely respected for his consistent sense of decency and civility, and I wish him the best in his future endeavors. This is an important moment as we look to the future of the court. I look forward to President Trump’s nomination of a well-qualified individual who will respect the Constitution and the rule of law and exercise judicial restraint. I will work with my colleagues to ensure he or she is confirmed this fall.”