U.S. Senator Jon Kyl speaks at the McCain Institute’s 2019 Sedona Forum
WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 17, 2026) – McCain Institute Chairman Emeritus Amb. Cindy McCain today issued the following statement regarding the passing of U.S. Senator Jon Kyl:
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend Jon Kyl. Jon was a devoted public servant, a principled leader, and a true friend to John and to me.
“For decades, Jon served Arizona and our country with integrity, humility, and an unwavering commitment to public service. When Arizona needed him once again following John’s passing, Jon answered the call, a gesture of service and friendship that I will never forget.
“My heart is with Caryll, their family, and all those who knew and loved Jon. Arizona has lost one of its finest public servants, and I have lost a cherished friend. He will be deeply missed.”
U.S. Senator Jon Kyl served Arizona for over 26 years beginning in the U.S. House from 1987 to 1995 and U.S. Senate from 1995 to 2013. He served alongside Senator John McCain for three terms in the U.S. Senate. Senators Kyl and McCain worked together on national issues like immigration and military readiness, and issues of importance to Arizona, including water rights and public lands conservation. Senator Kyl returned to the Senate in 2018 after being appointed by Arizona Governor Doug Ducey to temporarily fill Senator John McCain’s seat following his passing. Senator Kyl was a longtime supporter of the McCain Institute.
“He is respected by one and all, Republican and Democrat,” said Senator John McCain to the Arizona Republic in 2014. “I wish I were as good a public servant as Jon Kyl. I think he’s a wonderful man.”
Read Senator McCain’s 2012 tribute to Senator Kyl HERE and view highlights below:
“Senator Jon Kyl and I have served the State of Arizona together for a quarter of a century since Jon was first elected to the other body and I to the Senate in 1986. We have worked together in this body for the last 18 years … I can also say in all honesty that my admiration for him has grown every single day I have been privileged to serve with him.
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“I have never failed to be impressed by the qualities Jon brings to these matters—his unflappable patience, his tireless work ethic, his careful attention to detail, his determination to be fair to all parties involved, and to achieve results that are in the best interests of our State of Arizona…
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“He is principled, purposeful, informed, collaborative, and able to get things done by cooperation and compromise without ever sacrificing the principles that motivate his public service. He would rather reason with opponents than insult them. He prefers accomplishments to acclaim…
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“I think Members on both sides of the aisle would testify to Jon’s fairness, collegiality, and effectiveness.”
About the McCain Institute at Arizona State University
The McCain Institute is a nonpartisan organization inspired by Senator John McCain and his family’s dedication to public service. We are part of Arizona State University and based in Washington, D.C. Our programs defend democracy, advance human rights and freedom, and empower character-driven leaders. Our unique power to convene leaders across the global political spectrum enables us to make a real impact on the world’s most pressing challenges. Our goal is action, not talk, and like Senator McCain, we are fighting to create a free, safe, and just world for all.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University has developed a new model for the American research university, creating an institution that is committed to access, excellence and impact. ASU measures itself by those it includes, not by those it excludes. As the prototype for a New American University, ASU pursues research that contributes to the public good, and ASU assumes major responsibility for the economic, social and cultural vitality of the communities that surround it.
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