Reaction continues to come in after the death of Osama bin Laden. Illinois’ U.S. Senators tell WBEZ they’re relieved to hear the news. Senior Sen. Dick Durbin said the death is a blow toward the efforts of Al Qaeda.

“He is the symbol of this. He is the leader of this. And when you strike the top man, I think a number of people below him have to wonder if they’re next,” Durbin said.

Junior Senator Mark Kirk says bin Laden’s death holds great significance especially for those directly impacted by the 9/11 attacks.

“Its cultural significance is the most powerful and painful memory for most young Americans which they remember. And then reflect also that while this was a success, the battle against Islamic extremism is not yet over,” Kirk said.

Kirk says terror training camps are still widespread and the U.S. needs to remain vigilant in bringing them down.