Former U.S. Senator Alan Simpson, a 93-year-old political moderate known for his humor and bipartisanship, passed away after complications from a broken hip, leaving behind a lasting legacy in American politics.

Simpson's death marks the loss of a pivotal figure in American legislative history, remembered for his quick wit and ability to transcend party lines. As a senator from Wyoming for nearly two decades, he advocated for pragmatic solutions, served on a presidential debt-reduction commission, and earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom, reflecting his enduring impact on both his party and the political landscape. His commitment to bipartisan cooperation and big-hearted humor continues to resonate, highlighting the importance of civility in today's polarized political environment.

Alan Simpson was born in Denver, Colorado in 1931, where he would eventually rise to prominence in U.S. politics. He graduated from high school and college in Wyoming before serving in the U.S. Army. Following his military service, he earned a law degree, paving the way for his political career that would begin with his election to the U.S. Senate in 1978. Simpson served as a senator from Wyoming from 1979 to 1997, during which he became a key figure in the Republican Party, particularly during the era of President Ronald Reagan's leadership.

Throughout his time in the Senate, Simpson was known for his moderate viewpoints and unconventional positions. Notably, he held progressive views on certain issues, including his support for abortion rights, which were not widely accepted within the Republican Party and ultimately contributed to his distance from the mainstream GOP. His candid approach to politics earned him admiration from both sides of the aisle, illustrating his effectiveness as a bipartisan leader.

Simpson's humor and straightforward nature were memorable components of his public persona, famously stating, 'We have two political parties in this country, the Stupid Party and the Evil Party. I belong to the Stupid Party.' This self-deprecating wit endeared him to many and underscored his ability to mix humor with serious political discourse.

His capacity for friendship extended across the political spectrum, as he maintained close relationships with prominent Democrats such as Robert Reich and Norman Mineta. This willingness to engage with individuals from opposing parties not only solidified his reputation as a politically astute individual but also highlighted his genuine desire to work collaboratively to address pressing national issues.

In 2010, Simpson was appointed as a co-leader of the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, established by President Barack Obama. The task force aimed to develop a financial plan to address the growing national debt, demonstrating Simpson's commitment to serious fiscal responsibility and governance. His involvement in this commission further echoed his long-standing concern for the financial health of the nation.

In addition to his political work, Simpson had an impact on the next generation of leaders. After leaving the Senate, he taught courses on politics and media at Harvard University and the University of Wyoming. His dedication to educating students about the intricacies of political discourse reflects his deep-rooted belief in the importance of informed citizenship.

Simpson was known for his striking physical presence, standing at 6-foot-7, which made him the tallest senator in U.S. history until the election of Alabama's Luther Strange, who is 6-foot-9. His stature matched the larger-than-life persona he embodied, known for his hard-nosed approach to critical issues such as immigration and veterans' affairs. Simpson often referred to politics as a 'contact sport,' emphasizing the competitive nature of governance and policy-making.

In recognition of his significant contributions to American society, Simpson received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2022 from President Joe Biden. This honor symbolizes a lifetime of service and dedication to the public good, representing his legacy of leadership and commitment to bipartisanship.

Simpson is survived by his wife, Ann, two sons, Colin and William, and a daughter, Susan. His brother Pete Simpson remarked on his generous nature, describing him as 'an uncommonly generous man' who dedicated both his time and energy to family and public service. Alan Simpson's passing leaves a profound void, but his legacy of integrity, humor, and cross-party camaraderie will continue to inspire leaders and citizens alike in the years to come.