Former Wyoming Republican Senator Alan Simpson Passes Away at 93 Years Old
Former Senator Alan Simpson, a beloved lawmaker known for bridging partisan gaps, has passed away at the age of 93. The news of his death has been met with great sadness and reflection by both his colleagues and the American public.
Born in Denver, Colorado on September 2, 1931, Simpson spent his early years in Cody, Wyoming. He attended the University of Wyoming and later served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956. Simpson then pursued a law degree at the University of Wyoming College of Law, where he graduated in 1958.
In 1964, Simpson was elected to the Wyoming legislature, where he served for four years before being elected to the United States Senate in 1978. During his time in the Senate, Simpson was known for his strong work ethic, sharp wit, and ability to reach across the aisle to find common ground with his Democratic colleagues.
Simpson was a well-respected and influential politician, serving as the chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee from 1985 to 1995 and the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs from 1995 to 1997. He also served as the Senate Majority Whip from 1984 to 1985 and as the Senate Minority Whip from 1989 to 1995.
Throughout his career, Simpson was a champion for fiscal responsibility, education, and social security reform. He was also a staunch advocate for women’s rights, co-sponsoring the Paycheck Fairness Act and the Violence Against Women Act. Simpson’s commitment to bipartisanship and his ability to work with people from all political backgrounds earned him the admiration and respect of his colleagues and constituents.
In a statement, current Wyoming Senator John Barrasso praised Simpson, saying, “Senator Simpson represented the best of Wyoming and the best of the United States Senate. He was a loyal friend, a trusted colleague, and a true statesman who always put the country above politics.”
Former Vice President Joe Biden, who served with Simpson in the Senate, also shared his condolences, saying, “It was a privilege to serve alongside Alan Simpson for so many years. He was a dear friend and a fierce advocate for the people of Wyoming and our nation. His dedication to public service and his commitment to compromise and bipartisanship will be greatly missed.”
Simpson will also be remembered for his sense of humor and quick wit, often cracking jokes and making light-hearted jabs at his fellow lawmakers. His humor and ability to find common ground in even the most heated debates made him a well-respected figure on Capitol Hill.
Simpson retired from the Senate in 1997 after serving for 18 years. He later worked as a co-chair of the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, where he used his expertise and bipartisan approach to tackle issues of national debt and deficit reduction.
In his personal life, Simpson was a devoted husband to his late wife Ann, a father of three, and a grandfather to six. He was also an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and skiing in his beloved Wyoming. He will be remembered not only for his political accomplishments but also for his kind spirit and dedication to his family and community.
Former Senator Alan Simpson’s passing is a great loss to the nation. He was a true statesman, a bridge-builder, and a role model for politicians of all stripes. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the lasting impact he made on our country.
Rest in peace, Senator Simpson. Your dedication and service to our great nation will never be forgotten.
