Former U.S. Senator Alan Simpson, a notable figure in American politics, passed away at the age of 93. He died early Friday following health complications from a broken hip, as reported by his family and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, where he served on the board for over five decades.
Simpson, alongside former Vice President Dick Cheney, represented a strong Republican presence in Wyoming, the least populated state in the country. Known for his sharp humor, Simpson once quipped about the two political parties in the U.S., jokingly calling his own the “Stupid Party.”
During his tenure in the Senate from 1979 to 1997, Simpson was considered a moderate by today’s standards. His political career coincided with a time of resurgence for the Republican Party under President Ronald Reagan. As a key Senate leader, he helped unify GOP senators around significant legislative initiatives.
While he often expressed his strong opinions, Simpson was known for his thoughtful approach to issues. He had a reputation as a “deficit hawk” and often criticized individuals dependent on government support. Although he supported abortion rights—something that set him apart from the modern Republican platform—his willingness to hold a middle ground often led to his decline in influence within the party.
Simpson’s friendships crossed party lines, including notable figures like Robert Reich and Norman Mineta. He first met Mineta when they were both young; Mineta and his family had been unjustly incarcerated during World War II, an experience that Simpson later helped to shed light on as advocates for historical memory.
In 2010, President Barack Obama enlisted Simpson to help lead a debt-reduction commission. Although the commission proposed significant changes to save money through tax increases and cuts, its recommendations were ultimately not embraced by Congress.
Standing at 6-foot-7, Simpson was the tallest Senator on record until 2017. He came from a politically active family, with his father, Milward Simpson, having served as governor and U.S. Senator. Inspired by his father’s passion for politics, he pursued a similar path after graduating from the University of Wyoming.
His early years included a stint in the U.S. Army, after which he returned to Wyoming and worked in his father’s law firm for nearly two decades before entering public office. Simpson was well-regarded for his directness, often referring to politics as a “contact sport.” His candid and relatable nature endeared him to voters.
Over the years, he championed numerous issues including immigration reform, veterans’ affairs, and environmental concerns. Simpson was also an advocate for reviewing the sentences of juveniles, believing in rehabilitation over lifelong punishment for young offenders.
After leaving the Senate in 1995, he continued to focus on education and public service, teaching at Harvard and the University of Wyoming. In 2022, President Joe Biden recognized his contributions by awarding him the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Simpson is survived by his wife Ann, his brother Pete, and his children Colin, William, and Susan. His legacy as a bridge-builder in politics and a dedicated public servant remains significant, especially in these politically divisive times.
