Alice Stewart, a respected figure in political commentary, has died.
According to Mediaite, the unexpected passing of Alice Stewart, aged 58, occurred in northern Virginia and appears to have been due to a medical emergency.
Alice, a well-known CNN political commentator and former GOP political adviser, began her journalism career in Atlanta, Georgia. She transitioned from being a local reporter and producer to becoming a news anchor in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Alice Stewart was found early Saturday morning in Bellevue, a neighborhood in northern Virginia. The exact cause remains uncertain, but initial investigations suggest it was a medical incident.
Alice Stewart's move into national politics saw her as a communication strategist for several high-profile Republican presidential campaigns.
She lent her expertise to figures like Mike Huckabee in 2008, Michele Bachmann and later Rick Santorum in 2012, and Ted Cruz in 2016. Each campaign benefited from her sharp communication skills and deep understanding of American politics.
Her transition to national media was seamless when she joined CNN in 2016. Here, Alice made a significant impact by offering her perspective as a conservative, retaining her independence and even-handed approach to political analysis.
CNN's Mark Thompson expressed profound sorrow over her passing. Here is his heartfelt tribute to Alice Stewart:
Alice Stewart certainly made a mark on CNN with her insightful contributions and warm personality. Her colleagues describe her as a cherished friend and a professional beacon, always ready to support and inspire those around her.
In a 2020 interview with Harvard Political, Alice detailed her role at CNN:
My position at CNN is to be a conservative voice yet an independent thinker. I’m not a Kool-Aid drinker; I’m not a never-Trumper, and I didn’t check my common sense and decency at the door when I voted for [Trump].
Alice last appeared on CNN with Wolf Blitzer on "The Situation Room." It was just a day before her untimely death, marking a sudden end to a vibrant and influential career. Stewart's contributions to political discourse and her ability to communicate complex ideas simply and effectively will be remembered by many.
CNN CEO Mark Thompson's tribute echoes the sentiments of many who knew her:
Alice was a very dear friend and colleague to all of us at CNN. A political veteran and an Emmy Award-winning journalist who brought an incomparable spark to CNN’s coverage, known across our bureaus not only for her political savvy, but for her unwavering kindness. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn such an extraordinary loss.
Alice Stewart's legacy as a forthright communicator, a dedicated journalist, and a distinguished political adviser will undoubtedly endure in the memories of those who worked alongside her and admired her public contributions. Her passing is a loss not only for her family and friends but also for the public discourse, which benefited immensely from her thoughtful and nuanced perspectives.
