Jon Kyl passes away

Former Arizona Sen. Jon Kyl died at 84 after a battle with dementia, announced by his family Thursday.

Kyl served in Senate for 18 years

Kyl was first sworn in to the Senate in 1995, retiring in 2013, and briefly returned in 2018 after John McCain's death.

Dementia diagnosis in 2025

Kyl stepped away from public life in December 2025 after receiving a neurological disease diagnosis that led to dementia.

Kyl's Senate career

Before the Senate, Kyl served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1987 to 1995.

Flake's tribute

Former Sen. Jeff Flake praised Kyl's leadership, saying he was 'one of the most diligent and effective public servants Arizona has ever had.'

“Arizona has lost a giant. Jon Kyl was one of the most diligent and effective public servants Arizona has ever had.”

Kyl's water rights work

Kyl secured nine Indian water settlements, helping tribes in Arizona access water while supporting state sustainability.

Kyl's mentorship

Kyl mentored Jeff Flake, advising him to keep family informed about political work, a lesson Flake followed throughout his career.