Former Senator Joe Lieberman, the first Jewish vice-presidential nominee of a major party, has passed away at the age of 82, according to a statement from his family. Lieberman, known for his conscience and independent streak, embarked on a journey away from his Democratic Party roots.
Lieberman died on Wednesday due to complications from a fall in New York. His wife, Hadassah, and members of his family were with him during his final moments.
The peak of Lieberman’s political career arrived when he was chosen by Democratic presidential nominee Al Gore in 2000 as his running mate. Despite the historic breakthrough for Jewish Americans, the election’s disputed outcome was eventually decided by the Supreme Court in favor of then-Texas Gov. George W. Bush.
Lieberman’s political stance often aligned with mainstream Democrats on issues like abortion and economic policy. He will be remembered as one of the last major statesmen of an era when true bipartisanship seemed achievable in Washington.
Don't Miss
However, Lieberman’s evolution accelerated after the September 11, 2001, attacks. His hawkish stance on foreign policy increasingly distanced him from his own party, particularly his support for the US invasion of Iraq in 2003.
In 2004, Lieberman launched his own campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination, but it failed to gain momentum. His refusal to renounce the Iraq War further distanced him from the party’s base, leading to his loss in the Democratic primary for his Senate seat in 2006. Nevertheless, he ran as an independent and won, returning to the Senate.
Lieberman’s relationship with the Democratic Party soured further when he attended the 2008 Republican National Convention in support of his friend, Sen. John McCain, the Republican presidential nominee. His criticisms of Democratic nominee Sen. Barack Obama drew ire from many within his party.
Despite his contentious political journey, Lieberman will also be remembered for his observance of Orthodox Jewish faith, which he proudly upheld throughout his career. In his final years, he co-chaired the No Labels Group, advocating for bipartisan problem-solving in Washington.
His passing marks the end of an era in American politics, leaving behind a legacy of independence and dedication to public service.
Lieberman’s family confirmed his death in a statement, expressing that “Senator Lieberman’s love of God, his family, and America endured throughout his life of service in the public interest.”
This story has been updated with additional information.
