Setti Warren death prompts outpouring from politicians, leaders

Warren worked as the deputy state director for Senator John Kerry’s Massachusetts office from 2004 to 2008, held multiple positions in the Clinton White House, and served as New England regional director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

After he was elected mayor of Newton, he ran in 2011 for the US Senate and also challenged Republican Governor Charlie Baker in 2018 before withdrawing from the race.

US Representative Ayanna Pressley said she had just spoken with Warren on Saturday night, and was in shock — and heartbroken — about his death.

“There will be plenty of time to remember him as a proud Democrat, dedicated public servant, and convener, but for now I just want to remember the decent, kind, and good man that he was,” Pressley said in a post on X. “Setti was a loving son, brother, dedicated husband, and father. He was always ready with a hug, an easy and deep laugh, and kind eyes that twinkled.

“He is someone you were always happy to see coming your way,” the post continued. “He radiated light and optimism. Setti had so much life left to live, milestones to experience, hearts to touch, and lives to change. We communicated just last night. I am shocked. And I have called his phone and texted him repeatedly upon learning this devastating news as it was easier to be in denial. ”

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey said she will miss Warren’s “smarts, energy, compassion, and most of all, his heart.”

“As a veteran, mayor, and mentor, Setti Warren spent his life to serving others and inspiring young leaders. Above all, he cherished his family and his role as husband and father. I had the privilege of working alongside him and he did this work for all the right reasons,” Healey said in a post on X. “My thoughts are with his family and loved ones, the Harvard community, and all who knew him.”

US Senator Ed Markey said the country and state has “lost a brilliant patriot and public servant” with Warren’s passing.

“His vision and example have inspired generations of young people,” Markey said. “My heart is with his wife, Tassy, his children, and the entire Harvard and Newton communities.”

US Representative Jake Auchincloss also extended his condolences.

“Massachusetts has lost a bright light much too young,“ Auchincloss said in a post on X. “Setti Warren was my mayor, my friend, and an exemplar to everyone of public service. When I first ran for city council, it was his style of door-to-door dynamism that inspired me. I grieve for his wife, Tassy, and his children. May his life and work inspire for years to come.”

US Representative Katherine Clark said she was devastated to hear the news of Warren’s death.

“He was a beloved teacher, mentor, and leader,” she said. “As former Mayor of Newton, he inspired students to love and participate in public service. Setti will be missed by so many. I am praying for his family during this difficult time.”

US Senator Elizabeth Warren also expressed her condolences to Warren’s family.

“I’m saddened to hear about Setti Warren,” she said. “Massachusetts lost a light today. Setti was a true public servant. I’m thinking of him and his family.”

Former Harvard president Lawrence H. Summers said as director of the Harvard Kennedy School‘s Institute of Politics, Warren “cared like few others for students,” and the institute will not be the same without him.

CNN anchor Abby D. Phillip also shared her reaction to the sad news.

“Just emailed with Setti a few days ago,“ she said in a post on X. ”I’m so devastated by this news. I’m praying for his wife and children. Setti was such a bright light and a dear friend. We will miss him so much.”

Emily Sweeney can be reached at emily.sweeney@globe.com. Follow her @emilysweeney and on Instagram @emilysweeney22.