Former Senator Jon Kyl Discloses Dementia Diagnosis

Key Takeaways

• Former Arizona Sen. Jon Kyl has been diagnosed with dementia and will step back from public life
• Kyl served in Congress for almost 30 years, representing Arizona in both the House and Senate
• He briefly returned to Congress in 2018 to fill the seat left open by the death of Sen. John McCain
• Kyl’s diagnosis comes a week after former Sen. Ben Sasse announced he had been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer
• Kyl is grateful for the love and support of his family and remains optimistic despite his diagnosis

Introduction to Jon Kyl’s Career
Former Sen. Jon Kyl of Arizona announced on Tuesday that he would be stepping back from public life after being diagnosed with dementia. This news marks the end of a long and distinguished career in public service for Kyl, who served in Congress for almost 30 years. Kyl, a Republican, represented Arizona in both the House and Senate, serving in the House from 1987 to 1995 and then in the Senate from 1995 until 2013. During his time in Congress, Kyl held various leadership positions, including Senate minority whip, the No. 2 Republican in the chamber.

Kyl’s Time in Congress
Kyl’s time in Congress was marked by his commitment to public service and his dedication to the people of Arizona. He was known for his strong work ethic and his ability to work across the aisle to get things done. Kyl was a key player in many significant legislative efforts, including the nomination of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, which he helped guide through the Senate during his time as a lobbyist at the firm Covington and Burling. Kyl’s experience and expertise made him a valuable asset to the Republican party, and he was often called upon to provide counsel and guidance on key issues.

Return to Congress and Later Career
In 2018, Kyl briefly returned to Congress after Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey, a Republican, appointed him to fill the seat left open by the death of Sen. John McCain. Kyl stayed in the seat until 2019, when he returned to Covington and Burling. This brief return to Congress was a testament to Kyl’s enduring commitment to public service and his willingness to answer the call to serve his state and country once again. Despite his diagnosis, Kyl remains grateful for the opportunities he has had and is at peace with his decision to step back from public life.

Diagnosis and Personal Reflections
Kyl’s diagnosis with dementia is a significant challenge, but he is facing it with courage and optimism. In a statement, Kyl expressed his gratitude for the love and support of his family and acknowledged the difficulties that lie ahead. "My family and I now head down a path filled with moments of joy and increasing difficulties," he said. "I am grateful beyond expression for their love and support, in these coming days as in all the days of my life. Despite this diagnosis, I remain a very fortunate man." Kyl’s diagnosis comes a week after former Sen. Ben Sasse announced he had been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer, highlighting the challenges that many public figures face in their personal lives.

Legacy and Impact
Kyl’s legacy is one of dedication, hard work, and commitment to public service. He has inspired countless individuals with his example, and his contributions to the state of Arizona and the nation will not be forgotten. As he steps back from public life, Kyl can take pride in the knowledge that he has made a lasting impact on the world around him. His diagnosis with dementia is a reminder that even the most accomplished and respected individuals can face significant challenges, but it is also a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. Despite the difficulties that lie ahead, Kyl remains grateful for the opportunities he has had and is at peace with his decision to step back from public life.