Congressman Patrick McHenry (NC-10) released the following statement on the passing of Hickory Mayor Rudy Wright:

"Giulia and I are shocked and saddened to learn of Mayor Wright's sudden passing. Mayor Wright was synonymous with Hickory, displaying his love for the city during the entirety of his nearly two decades of service as mayor. His tenure was marked by significant economic transformation in our area, throughout which Mayor Wright always remained the city's biggest advocate and booster. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Donna and the entire Wright family as they mourn this loss."