Apple Co-Founder Steve Jobs Dies

Apple co-founder Steve Jobs passed away earlier today in his California home. He was 56.

"The world has lost a visionary," said President Barack Obama in a statement that the White House released shortly after news of Jobs' death broke. "There may be no greater tribute to Steve’s success than the fact that much of the world learned of his passing on a device he invented. Michelle and I send our thoughts and prayers to Steve’s wife Laurene, his family, and all those who loved him."

New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg were among those who mourned Jobs on their social media networks and in statements.

“I send my deepest condolences to Steve Jobs’ family and friends on this devastating loss," said California Sen. Barbara Boxer. "Steve Jobs was a California icon who embodied Silicon Valley’s entrepreneurial spirit of creativity and optimism. By revolutionizing communications, he touched the lives of billions of people around the world. He will be sorely missed.”