Obama eulogizes NYT publisher Sulzberger

President Obama today praised the late New York Times publisher Arthur Ochs Sulzberger, calling him "a firm believer in the importance of a free and independent press "

Sulzberger, who helped make the Times one of the world's great news organizations, died today at age 86.

Obama's statement:

"Michelle and I were saddened today to hear about the passing of Arthur Sulzberger.

Over the course of more than 30 years, Arthur helped transform The New York Times and secure its status as one of the most successful and respected newspapers in the world.

He was a firm believer in the importance of a free and independent press -- one that isn't afraid to seek the truth, hold those in power accountable, and tell the stories that need to be told.

Arthur's legacy lives on in the newspaper he loved and the journalists he inspired.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."