Alaska Republican Congressman Don Young dead at 88

 

Longest-serving U.S. congressman, Alaska's Don Young, dies

Alaska Congressman Don Young, the most senior member of the U.S. House, has died. He was 88.

Lobbyist Jack Ferguson, who was Young’s friend and his first chief of staff, confirmed the news Friday afternoon.

He said he heard from Alaska Airlines that the congressman died in Concourse B. And he was so stunned he didn’t ask which airport.

HOUSE IN MOURNING 

Don Young dead at 88 – Alaska rep and longest-serving Republican member of Congress who was elected in 1973 passes away

“An absolutely heartbreaking loss for Congress, Alaska, and the United States of America. As Dean, Don Young was an institution in the House of Representatives, beloved and revered by Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle. Almost every Member of Congress has a one-of-a-kind story of their first interaction with Don Young. He was a tireless and exceptional advocate for the people of Alaska. He spent every single day doing what he loved - bringing his gargantuan voice and outsized leadership on behalf of Alaskans. He was a friend to so many. I was proud to call him a friend and colleague. Don Young’s sudden passing leaves a hole in our hearts and he is simply irreplaceable in the People’s House. Our deepest prayers and condolences go to his beloved family, friends, dedicated staff, and constituents," the statement read.

Original:

Stunning news broke on Friday night, as former staffers for Rep. Don Young (R-AK) confirmed that Young, who was the longest-serving member of Congress, died. According to the Anchorage Daily News, which cited Jack Ferguson, Young's former chief of staff, the congressman lost consciousness on a flight from Los Angeles to Seattle and could not be resuscitated. He was 88-years old and had also served as the dean of the U.S. House of Representative.