Jon Kyl, aged 83 and a prominent Republican figure from Arizona, revealed on Tuesday that he will be stepping back from public responsibilities after being diagnosed with dementia. Kyl's political career spans nearly three decades, during which he served in the United States House of Representatives and the Senate. Within the Senate, he notably held the position of minority whip.
In an official statement, Kyl reflected on his future: "My family and I now head down a path filled with moments of joy and increasing difficulties. 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."
After concluding his Senate service in 2013, Kyl transitioned into lobbying, joining the firm Covington and Burling. His political involvement briefly resumed in 2018 when then-Governor Doug Ducey appointed him to fill the Senate seat left vacant by the death of John McCain. Kyl served in this capacity for several months before returning to his lobbying career.
Throughout his tenure in Congress, Kyl applied his expertise particularly in water policy. According to Sarah Porter, director of Arizona State University's Kyl Center for Water Policy—named in his honor—he was instrumental in securing tribal water rights settlements and was a key contributor in the establishment of Arizona's water regulations.
In his post-congressional efforts as a lobbyist, Kyl played a significant role in guiding the appointment of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh.