Alice Stewart, a renowned CNN political commentator and GOP adviser, passed away at 58. Remembered for her political insight and kindness, her legacy leaves a lasting impact on journalism and politics.
Alice Stewart, a distinguished political adviser and beloved CNN political commentator, passed away at 58. Her body was discovered outdoors in the Belle View neighborhood of northern Virginia early Saturday morning. Law enforcement officials have indicated that no foul play is suspected, believing that Stewart suffered a medical emergency.
Mark Thompson, CEO of CNN, expressed deep sorrow in an email to the network’s staff. “Alice was a very dear friend and colleague to all of us at CNN,” Thompson said. “A political veteran and an Emmy Award-winning journalist who brought an incomparable spark to CNN’s coverage, known across our bureaus for her political savvy and unwavering kindness. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn such an extraordinary loss.”
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Born in Atlanta on March 11, 1966, Stewart’s career began as a local reporter and producer in Georgia. She later moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, where she became a news anchor. Her political career took off when she served as communications director for then-Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee. She continued this role for Huckabee’s 2008 presidential campaign and later worked on the 2012 presidential bids of former Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann and former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum. Stewart most recently served as the communications director for Texas Sen. Ted Cruz’s 2016 GOP presidential campaign.
Senator Cruz paid tribute to Stewart, calling her “wonderful and talented and a dear friend” in a post on X. ” She lived every day to the fullest, and she will be deeply missed.”
Stewart joined CNN as a political commentator ahead of the 2016 election. She was frequently on air, including her last appearance on “The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer” just a day before her passing. Blitzer praised Stewart’s Stewart’s insightful contributions: “We always invited her to come on my show because we knew we would be a little bit smarter at the end of that conversation.”
Dana Bash, CNN anchor and chief political correspondent, shared her memories of Stewart, emphasizing her honesty and expertise. “One of the many reasons why she was so valuable to us on our political panels is because she brought that experience,” Bash said. “She brought that understanding of how Republican politics and Republican campaigns work, and she never, ever did it with anything other than a smile.”
In a 2020 interview with the Harvard Political Review, Stewart described her role at CNN as a “conservative voice yet an independent thinker.” She prided herself on maintaining common sense and decency in her political views.
Former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson recalled Stewart’s Stewart’s supportive nature, noting her encouragement after he suspended his presidential campaign earlier this year. “She was trying to change the political landscape, and we’ll miss her,” Hutchinson said.
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Stewart also co-hosted the podcast “Hot Mics From Left to Right” with fellow CNN commentator Maria Cardona. Cardona expressed her shock and grief, stating, “I just can’t believe that she’s gone. Alice was just such a loving, shining light.””
Beyond her professional achievements, Stewart was dedicated to mentoring young political minds as part of the senior advisory committee at the Institute of Politics at Harvard University’s Kennedy School, where she had been a fellow. An avid runner, Stewart participated in numerous races, including the TCS New York City Marathon and the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile race.
Alice Stewart’s Stewart’s passing leaves a significant void in political commentary and journalism. Her integrity, kindness, and expertise legacy will be remembered by her colleagues, friends, and viewers.
Alice Stewart’s untimely passing is a profound loss for the world of political commentary and journalism. Her remarkable career, characterized by her unwavering integrity, political acumen, and genuine kindness, made her a respected figure both on and off the screen. As colleagues and friends mourn her departure, they celebrate a life dedicated to enhancing public understanding and fostering a more informed and compassionate political discourse. Stewart’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations in the fields she so passionately served.
