CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Former U.S. Senator Alan Simpson, known for his sharp wit and ability to bridge political divides, has passed away at the age of 93. His family and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West confirmed the news, stating that Simpson had been struggling to recover from a broken hip he suffered in December. Simpson’s older brother, Pete Simpson, described him as an exceptionally generous man, always willing to give his time and energy unconditionally.

Former President George W. Bush praised Simpson as one of the most outstanding public servants to have graced the nation’s capital. Despite being a towering Republican figure from the least-populated state of Wyoming, Simpson was widely recognized for his humor, in stark contrast to his fellow Wyoming native, former Vice President Dick Cheney.

Throughout his three terms as a senator from 1979 to 1997, Simpson played a pivotal role in the Republican Party’s resurgence under President Ronald Reagan. Despite being considered a political moderate, Simpson held strong convictions and was known for his blunt opinions, particularly on government assistance and deficit reduction measures. Simpson’s bipartisan approach earned him friendships with prominent Democrats like Robert Reich and Norman Mineta.

Simpson’s commitment to bipartisan collaboration was shaped early on in life when he formed a lasting friendship with Mineta during their time as Boy Scouts at the Heart Mountain War Relocation Center. Both men later worked together to raise awareness about the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II. Simpson’s legacy as a bipartisan consensus builder was further emphasized by his involvement in President Barack Obama’s debt-reduction commission in 2010.

In addition to his political career, Simpson was a devoted family man, celebrating his 70th wedding anniversary with his wife, Ann, surrounded by loved ones in Cody. After leaving the Senate in 1995, Simpson continued to impart his knowledge through teaching at prestigious universities like Harvard and the University of Wyoming. His dedication to public service and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life left a lasting impact on American politics.

President Joe Biden recently honored Simpson with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2022, recognizing his lifetime of contributions to the country. Simpson is survived by his wife, Ann, his brother Pete Simpson, sons Colin and William Simpson, and daughter Susan Simpson Gallagher, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, humor, and compassion.