By Niels Lesniewski and JM Rieger

The Senate is mourning the loss of one of the chamber’s great leaders. Former Majority Leader Howard Baker Jr., R-Tenn., has died. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell made the announcement on the floor of the Senate. “It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of one of the Senate’s most towering figures: Senator Howard Baker. The Senate sends its sincere condolences to the family of Senator Baker,” the Kentucky Republican said.