Washington, DC – Robert S. Strauss, former chair of the Democratic National Committee and former ambassador to the Soviet Union, died Wednesday at the age of 95. In recognition, DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz released the following statement:

“I was saddened to hear of the death of Robert Strauss. He was a statesman and public servant in every sense of the word. As a Party leader and DNC Chair, he worked to revitalize the Democratic Party during the 1970's and helped lay the groundwork for Jimmy Carter's election.

“Strauss later went on to serve Presidents from both parties with distinction domestically and abroad. He was a proud Texan and legendary Democrat who always put his country ahead of all else.

“He will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with the Strauss family at this difficult time.”