(COLUMBUS, Ohio (WTVN) -- Flags across the city of Columbus and the entire state of Ohio are flying at half-staff in honor of Senator John McCain.
The Republican from Arizona died over the weekend after a year-long battle with brain cancer.
McCain was 81.
Ohio Governor John Kasich noted that he and McCain entered Congress in the same year, and it didn't take long for people to realize McCain was a natural leader.
And, Kasich said he believes there's no one on the national scene right now who could fill McCain's shoes.
Ohio Republican U.S. Senator Rob Portman called McCain a true patriot who lived the motto of his 2008 campaign: Country first. Always.
Democratic U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown called a leader to senators from both parties, a touchstone on foreign and domestic issues.
Central Ohio Congressman Steve Stivers remembered Sen. McCain with 610 WTVN's Westside Jeff and said he'll remember McCain for his incredible legacy of service and sacrifice.
Stivers noted McCain's position as chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee made him the first person to go to when it came to issues regarding the Ohio National Guard.
The congressman said McCain was one who was always ready to help in the best interest of the country and national defense.
(Photo: Getty Images)