Lugar loses primary; Obama praises his career

[May 09, 2012]  WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama is expressing deep appreciation for what he calls Indiana Republican Richard Lugar's distinguished service in the Senate.

Lugar lost a primary challenge to a tea party-backed candidate Tuesday. Obama says in a statement that he and Lugar didn't agree on everything, but he praised Lugar for his willingness to -- in Obama's words -- reach across the aisle and get things done. The president highlighted Lugar's efforts to work with the White House on nonproliferation issues, and his bipartisanship on national security. Obama says Lugar has "served his constituents and his country well." [Associated Press] Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.