Alan Simpson, the former U.S. Senator from Wyoming known for his wittiness and cross-party collaboration, died at the age of 93, his family announced. Simpson's death comes after complications from a broken hip suffered in December, marking the end of an era in bipartisan politics.
Breitbart reported that early on Friday, Simpson passed away, having faced difficulties in recovering from a broken hip incurred last December.
His era in politics was marked by his humorous but poignant critiques of party ideologies and a staunch commitment to legislative precision.
His family, together with the Buffalo Bill Center of the West—an institution where he played an integral role for over five decades—confirmed his passing in heartfelt statements reminiscent of his long-standing service and personal generosity.
From 1979 until 1997, Simpson served as a U.S. Senator. During his tenure, he was known for his pragmatic approach to governance, which fostered significant legislative partnerships across the aisle.
He distinguished himself in the political arena with his incisive humor and candid observations, famously distinguishing the major U.S. political parties as the "Stupid Party" and the "Evil Party," aligning himself, tongue firmly in cheek, with the former.
This ability to inject humor into serious political discourse was emblematic of Simpson's broader approach to public service—one bridging the gap between earnest policy making and accessible, relatable communication.
Throughout his political career, Simpson was a vocal advocate for reducing the federal deficit. He emphasized a need for governmental prudence and was critical of what he viewed as overdependence on government aid.
Despite his conservative leanings on fiscal issues, he was progressive in other areas, such as supporting abortion rights—a stance that underscored his broader political philosophy of moderate, pragmatic governance.
In a demonstration of his bipartisan ethos, in 2010, Simpson was appointed by President Barack Obama to co-lead a commission aimed at curbing the national deficit, proposing a mix of tax increases and spending cuts.
One of Simpson's lasting legacies was his ability to maintain and cultivate relationships across political divides, significantly defining his legislative and interpersonal approach to politics.
His connection with figures such as Robert Reich, the former Labor Secretary under President Bill Clinton, highlighted this aspect of his career, demonstrating that personal respect and professional collaboration could transcend party lines.
Last year, President Joe Biden recognized Simpson's extensive contributions to American public life by awarding him the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom, celebrating both his political impact and his commitment to national interests over partisan concerns.
Peter Simpson, Alan's older brother, remembered him as a profoundly generous individual, not only in terms of material offerings but in his dedication to both his public duties and his familial responsibilities.
Colin Simpson, Alan's son and also a noted political figure, encapsulated his father's dual legacies in politics and home. He expressed immense pride in the journey his father charted, one marked distinctly by love, humor, and an unwavering dedication to service.