Remembering Alan Simpson: A Maverick with a Heart of Gold

Introduction: The Passing of a Political Icon

Alan K. Simpson, a towering figure in American politics and a beloved statesman, left an indelible mark on the nation before his passing at the age of 93. Known for his quick wit, sharp humor, and ability to bridge partisan divides, Simpson was a man of uncommon generosity and dedication. His death on Friday marked the end of an era, as he was one of the last remnants of a time when political discourse was less divisive and more civil. Simpson’s legacy is one of bipartisanship, humor, and a deep commitment to public service. His family and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, where he served on the board for 56 years, announced his passing, remembering him as a man who gave unconditionally of his time and energy—both in politics and in his personal life.

A Life of Service and Humor: Bridging the Partisan Gap

Simpson’s political career spanned decades, during which he became a legend in Wyoming politics and beyond. He served three terms in the U.S. Senate from 1979 to 1997, playing a key role in the Republican Party’s resurgence under President Ronald Reagan. Yet, Simpson was no ordinary Republican. He was a political moderate by today’s standards, known for his sharp wit and ability to bring people together across the aisle. His humor was legendary, and his ability to laugh at himself and the absurdities of politics made him a beloved figure. As he once quipped, “We have two political parties in this country, the Stupid Party and the Evil Party. I belong to the Stupid Party.” This kind of self-deprecating humor endeared him to both friends and foes alike.

Simpson’s moderation sometimes put him at odds with his party, particularly on issues like abortion rights, which he supported. However, his willingness to take tough stances and his reputation as a deficit hawk won him respect from both sides of the aisle. His friendships with Democrats like Robert Reich and Norman Mineta were a testament to his ability to build bridges. Mineta, who served as Transportation Secretary under President George W. Bush, recalled a humorous anecdote about Simpson’s response to a question about their political differences: “Alan thought about it and he said, ‘Well, I wear size 15 shoes and he wears a size 8 and a half.’” This lighthearted answer captured the essence of Simpson’s approach to politics—always finding common ground, even in the face of differences.

A Commitment to Bipartisanship and Public Service

Simpson’s ability to work across the aisle was perhaps his greatest strength. He was a master of building bipartisan consensus, a skill that is all too rare in today’s hyper-partisan political climate. His son Colin, a former Wyoming House speaker, remembered him as a man “gifted in crossing party lines and building bipartisan consensus.” This gift was evident in his work on various issues, from immigration to veterans’ affairs. Simpson’s commitment to public service went beyond politics; he was a man of deep compassion and empathy, always willing to lend a hand to those in need.

One of Simpson’s most memorable contributions was his work on the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, which he co-chaired in 2010 under President Barack Obama. The commission’s plan to reduce the national debt through a combination of tax hikes and spending cuts, though ultimately unsuccessful in Congress, showcased Simpson’s willingness to tackle tough issues and his commitment to finding solutions that transcended party lines. His towering height—6 feet 7 inches—made him a literal giant in the Senate, but it was his larger-than-life personality and his unwavering dedication to the common good that truly set him apart.

A Family Man and a Fighter for Justice

Simpson’s life was not just defined by his politics but also by his deep love for his family. He was born in Denver in 1931 and grew up in Cody, Wyoming, where he developed a mischievous streak as a young man. Despite his early penchant for trouble, Simpson found his calling in politics, inspired by his father, Milward Simpson, who was also a governor, U.S. senator, and state legislator. Simpson’s mother, Lorna Kooi Simpson, instilled in him a sense of duty and compassion, which he carried with him throughout his life.

Simpson’s marriage to Ann Schroll in 1954 was a partnership that lasted 70 years. Together, they raised four children and became pillars of their community. Simpson’s sense of justice and compassion extended beyond his family to the broader community. He was a vocal advocate for the rights of Japanese Americans who were interned during World War II, a cause he championed alongside his friend Norman Mineta. Their friendship, forged during their days as Boy Scouts, was a testament to the power of forgiveness and reconciliation. Simpson’s commitment to social justice and his willingness to confront uncomfortable truths were hallmarks of his character.

Life After Politics: Teaching, Speaking, and Living with Purpose

After leaving the Senate in 1997, Simpson remained active in public life, teaching at Harvard University and the University of Wyoming. He was a sought-after speaker, often urging young people to engage in politics and make a difference. His candor and wit made him a favorite on the lecture circuit, and his ability to inspire was unparalleled. Simpson’s love for politics was matched only by his love for his family, and he often spoke of the importance of balancing public service with personal life.

Simpson’s later years were marked by continued advocacy and a deepening commitment to his community. He and his wife Ann celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in 2023 with a community ice cream social, a testament to their enduring love and their connection to the people of Cody. Simpson’s legacy was formally recognized in 2022 when President Joe Biden awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. Though he was humble about his achievements, Simpson’s impact on American politics and society is undeniable.

A Legacy of Love, Laughter, and Leadership

Alan Simpson’s passing leaves a void in American politics, but his legacy of love, laughter, and leadership will endure. He was a man of rare qualities—funny, fiercely intelligent, and deeply compassionate. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life and his commitment to finding common ground are lessons that today’s politicians would do well to learn. Simpson’s family, including his wife Ann, his brother Pete, and his children Colin, William, and Susan, remember him as a man who lived life to the fullest and left the world a better place than he found it.

As the nation mourns the loss of this remarkable man, we can take comfort in the knowledge that his spirit of bipartisanship, humor, and generosity will continue to inspire future generations. Alan Simpson may be gone, but his legacy will never be forgotten. He was, as his brother Pete so eloquently put it, “an uncommonly generous man,” and his memory will be a blessing to all who knew him and to the countless lives he touched along the way.