The White House this afternoon released a statement from President Bush about Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, Massachusetts Democrat, who was announced today to have a malignant brain tumor.

Laura and I are concerned to learn of our friend Senator Kennedy's diagnosis. Ted Kennedy is a man of tremendous courage, remarkable strength, and powerful spirit. Our thoughts are with Senator Kennedy and his family during this difficult period. We join our fellow Americans in praying for his full recovery.

— Jon Ward, White House correspondent, The Washington Times