(Updated to include reaction to announcement)
The Kansas Senate took a moment of silence Tuesday morning after it was announced that Senate President Susan Wagle’s daughter passed away after a long illness.
Senate Vice President Jeff Longbine, in a halting voice, read the announcement to the chamber that Julia Marie Scott had passed away after a four-year battle with cancer. She was 38.
“Julia was an incredibly caring and compassionate soul who was loved by all who knew her, and her deep faith and prayers from around her community carried her through her fight with cancer,” Wagle said in a statement released by her office.
“This faith will likewise carry our family through this difficult time because we know she is at peace and without pain with our God in heaven,” Wagle said.
She is survived by her husband, Riley, and four children, Olivia, Ben, Ellie and Hugh.
Wagle’s rivals for the GOP nomination for the U.S. Senate expressed their condolences on social media.
“My heart breaks for Senate President Susan Wagle on the passing of her daughter,” tweeted former Secretary of State Kris Kobach.
“Heather and I are praying for God’s comfort for Susan and her family in the days ahead.”
Republican Congressman Roger Marshall and his wife also expressed sorrow for Wagle’s loss.
“Laina & I are heartbroken to hear of Julia Scott’s passing after a courageous battle with cancer,” Marshall tweeted.
“We pray God will bring her family peace. We ask you to join us in praying for her family, including her husband, Riley, her 4 young children, & her parents, Tom & Susan Wagle.”
Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly also expressed support for Wagle.
“Today we mourn the loss of Dr. Julia Marie Scott, daughter of Kansas Senate President @SenatorWagle,” Kelly tweeted.
“My thoughts and condolences are with Senator Wagle and her family during this difficult time.”
