Sen. Ted Kennedy's hospitalization Saturday drew immediate reaction and concern from his Senate colleagues running for president. The candidates described the Democratic Massachusetts legislator as a legend of the Senate and wished for his swift recovery:

Barack Obama: "Obviously my thoughts and prayers are with Teddy. He is one of my favorite people and so hopefully he is going to be okay ... Senator Kennedy is a giant in American political history. He has done more for the health care of others than just about anybody in history. So we are going to be rooting for him and I insist on being optimistic about how it is going to turn out."

Hillary Clinton: "Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family, because he has been a champion for health care. Nobody has fought harder to make sure everybody got good health care. And I know that we all join together in wishing him well."

John McCain: "Senator Kennedy's role in the U.S. Senate cannot be overstated. He is a legendary lawmaker, and I have the highest respect for him. When we have worked together, he has been a skillful, fair and generous partner. I consider it a great privilege to call him my friend."