Jon Kyl, former Arizona Senator, dies at 84

Former Arizona Republican Senator Jon Kyl has died at the age of 84 following a battle with a neurological disorder. His family confirmed his passing, noting that he had withdrawn from public life in December 2025 after being diagnosed with dementia.

Kyl’s political career spanned nearly three decades in the U.S. Congress, serving in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. He rose to the position of Senate Republican Minority Whip during his final full term. He was notably appointed by former Arizona Governor Doug Ducey in 2018 to fill the Senate vacancy left by the death of John McCain.

Throughout his tenure, Kyl was recognized for his influence on Western water policy, specifically his role in authoring the 2004 legislation regarding tribal water rights for the Gila River Indian Community. He also played a significant role as a negotiator during the confirmation process of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh.