CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Alan Simpson, a former U.S. senator and a unique figure in American politics, has passed away at the age of 93. Known for his sharp wit and the ability to bridge party lines, he left a lasting impact on both his colleagues and the public.
Simpson died early Friday after complications from a broken hip. His family shared that he was a man of deep generosity, always ready to lend his time and energy to both politics and family. “He was an uncommonly generous man,” his brother Pete said, highlighting Alan’s dedication to his loved ones and his public service.
Former President George W. Bush praised Simpson as one of the finest public servants, recalling not just his achievements but also his loyal friendship and humor. Simpson was widely recognized for his ability to connect with people, often using humor to diffuse tension in political discussions. One of his famous lines was, “We have two political parties in this country, the Stupid Party and the Evil Party. I belong to the Stupid Party.”
His political career spanned from 1979 to 1997, a period during which he played a crucial role in shaping Republican strategy, especially during Ronald Reagan’s presidency. Despite being a Republican, Simpson held moderate views that sometimes diverged from his party, such as his support for abortion rights. His friendships with leading Democrats, like Robert Reich and Norman Mineta, demonstrated his commitment to bipartisanship.
An interesting piece of history: Simpson and Mineta’s friendship began in their youth, when Mineta’s family was unjustly imprisoned during World War II. They worked together later to raise awareness about the injustices faced by Japanese Americans during that time.
Simpson was often called a “deficit hawk,” vocally advocating for fiscal responsibility, but he was also critical of the treatment of those in need. He believed in reviewing sentences for juveniles, emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment. “When they get to be 30 or 40 and they’ve been in the clink for 20 years, why not give them a second chance?” he once said.
In 2010, President Obama appointed him to co-chair a debt-reduction commission. The plan they proposed aimed to save $4 trillion but struggled to gain traction in Congress. This highlights the ongoing difficulties in U.S. politics around issues like fiscal responsibility, which remain as contentious today as they were during Simpson’s time in office.
While Simpson’s political career was significant, he also created a legacy through teaching. After leaving the Senate, he inspired students at Harvard and the University of Wyoming, encouraging them to engage in politics. In recognition of his service, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Biden in 2022.
Born in 1931 in Denver, Simpson had a lively youth filled with both mischief and achievement. He graduated from Cody High School and later earned his law degree. His family was deeply rooted in politics, with both parents serving in various public roles. Simpson often remarked how his father’s passion for public service inspired him to pursue a similar path.
Alan Simpson is survived by his wife Ann, his brother Pete, and their children: Colin, William, and Susan. His contributions to American politics and civil discourse will be remembered fondly.
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