Former U.S. Senator Alan Simpson Passes Away at 93, Remembered for Bipartisanship and Humor
Alan Simpson, a former U.S. senator from Wyoming, died at the age of 93, remembered for his generous spirit and ability to bridge partisan divides.
Although willing to challenge the establishment, Simpson generally owed his effectiveness to his ability to work within it.
Former Sen. Alan Simpson, a blunt talker and promoter of unpopular causes, dies in Wyoming
USA TODAY·7h
·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.Simpson was better known for holding his own views, though, with sometimes caustic certainty.
Former U.S. Sen. Alan Simpson of Wyoming, who bridged partisan gaps with quick wit, dies at age 93
PBS NewsHour·7h
·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.Leans LeftThis outlet slightly leans left.Simpson was better known for holding his own views, though, with sometimes caustic certainty.
Former Wyoming Sen. Alan Simpson dies at age 93
NBC News·8h
·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.Indeed, by the end of life, Simpson had also identified the growing political divide in Congress as a key threat to the nation’s well-being, lamenting to CNN in 2018, “You can see the bitterness that goes on.”
CNN·8h
·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.Leans LeftThis outlet slightly leans left.A political moderate by current standards, Simpson’s three terms as senator from 1979 to 1997 covered the Republican Party’s rejuvenation under President Ronald Reagan.
Former US Sen. Alan Simpson of Wyoming dies at age 93
ABC News·9h
·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.Simpson was better known for holding his own views, though, with sometimes caustic certainty.
Former US Sen. Alan Simpson of Wyoming, who bridged partisan gaps with his quick wit, dies at age 93
Associated Press·10h
·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
Summary
Alan Simpson, the former U.S. senator from Wyoming, has died at 93. A moderate Republican known for his humor and bipartisan efforts, he played significant roles in immigration reform and deficit reduction. Simpson was praised for his generosity, as well as his sharp insight on political matters, which earned admiration across party lines. His legacy includes the 1986 immigration law that granted legal status to millions and a lifelong commitment to fostering political cooperation. Simpson is survived by his family and is remembered fondly by peers, including former Presidents Bush and Biden.
Perspectives
Alan Simpson was a political icon known for his ability to bridge partisan divides, fostering bipartisan relationships during his time in the Senate. He was celebrated for his wit and humor, which he applied to serious political discussions.
Simpson's moderate stance in the Republican Party included support for abortion rights and same-sex marriage, which set him apart from his more conservative colleagues and contributed to his decline within the party.
His work on significant legislation, such as the 1986 immigration reform, showcased his commitment to bipartisan solutions, earning him respect across the political spectrum.