In brief
Jon Kyl, the former U.S. Senator from Arizona, has declared his withdrawal from public life after being diagnosed with dementia. In a heartfelt statement, the 83-year-old expressed gratitude for his family's support amid the challenges ahead. Kyl, who served nearly three decades in Congress and played a notable role in water policy and lobbying, leaves behind a legacy of significant contributions.
PHOENIX (AP) — Former Republican U.S. Senator Jon Kyl of Arizona announced on Tuesday his withdrawal from public life after receiving a diagnosis of dementia.
Kyl, 83, held his position in Arizona’s Congressional delegation for nearly three decades, primarily in the Senate where he served as minority whip.
“My family and I now head down a path filled with moments of joy and increasing difficulties,” Kyl stated. “I am grateful beyond expression for their love and support during these coming days, just as I have been throughout my life. Despite this diagnosis, I remain a fortunate man.”
After leaving the Senate in 2013, Kyl joined the lobbying firm Covington and Burling. He was appointed in 2018 by then-Governor Doug Ducey to fill the vacancy left by the late Senator John McCain, serving for several months before returning to his lobbying career.
Sarah Porter from Arizona State University highlighted Kyl's significant contributions to water policy, particularly in gaining approval for tribal water rights settlements. As director of the Kyl Center for Water Policy, named after the former senator, Porter noted that he was instrumental in shaping Arizona's water regulations.
In the realm of lobbying, Kyl also played a key role in supporting the confirmation of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh.
