Arizona’s political community mourns the loss of former U.S. Senator Jon Kyl, who died Wednesday night at age 84 following a neurological disorder. Kyl, a Republican stalwart whose career spanned from the Reagan era to President Trump’s first term, was celebrated for his behind‑the‑scenes work on water policy and his steady leadership in the Senate.
Trump’s praise and brief return to the Senate
When Governor Doug Ducey appointed Kyl in 2018 to fill the vacancy left by the late Senator John McCain, President Trump publicly praised the “extraordinary senator” and expressed enthusiasm about working with him. Kyl served less than four months before returning to the lobbying firm Covington & Burling, but his brief stint was marked by his reputation as a trusted guide for high‑profile nominations, including Justice Brett Kavanaugh.
Water‑policy legacy
Kyl’s most enduring impact was on western water management. As a lawyer for a major Arizona water utility, he helped craft the state’s 1980 groundwater code, establishing a regulatory framework that still protects the Phoenix‑Tucson corridor. In 2004, he authored legislation that secured one of the nation’s largest tribal water‑rights settlements, delivering enough water for the Gila River Indian Community to fill roughly 313,500 Olympic‑size swimming pools each year. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell called Kyl’s work ethic “legendary” and highlighted his behind‑the‑scenes dedication to the settlement.
Legislative leadership and bipartisan moments
During his final full Senate term, Kyl was elected minority whip, helping keep the Republican caucus united on key issues such as opposition to the Affordable Care Act and strong support for Israel. He also backed legislation authorizing a fence along the U.S.–Mexico border, reflecting his commitment to secure borders. Notably, Kyl joined Democrats on a failed proposal that would have offered a pathway to citizenship and temporary guest‑worker status for certain undocumented immigrants, demonstrating his willingness to seek pragmatic solutions.
Personal reflections and family
Kyl, born in Oakland, Nebraska, and raised on an Iowa farm, earned his law degree at the University of Arizona, where he met his wife, Caryll. After retiring from elected office in 2013, he became a lobbyist but remained active in public service until his dementia diagnosis in December 2025. In a statement echoing former President Ronald Reagan’s own health disclosure, Kyl described himself as “a very fortunate man,” expressing confidence in Arizona’s future.
Tributes from Arizona leaders
Governor Ducey called Kyl a “giant” in the Senate, praising his seriousness, forthrightness, and thoughtful approach. Ducey recalled seeing Kyl on a plane, reading potential bills in coach‑class seats—a testament to his diligent, work‑horse reputation. Arizona State University’s Kyl Center for Water Policy, named in his honor, highlighted his generosity with time and his focus on the public good for future generations.
Jon Kyl’s death marks the passing of a figure who helped shape critical water policy, guided major judicial confirmations, and embodied a steady, principled conservatism that resonated with both state and national leaders.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
