Republican Congressman Don Young, Alaska’s lone representative in the U.S. House, has died. He was 88 years old.
The longest-serving member of Congress, Young had served as the representative for Alaska since 1973 when he won a special election held in the wake of the disappearance of incumbent Democrat Nick Begich. Begich won the 1972 election despite having disappeared in a plane crash weeks earlier, but was declared dead later that year.in 2017 following the retirement of former Rep. John Conyers.According to an announcement from his office, Young’s wife Anne was by his side when he died.
“Don Young’s legacy as a fighter for the state will live on, as will his fundamental goodness and his honor,” the statement from his office read in part. “We will miss him dearly. His family, his staff, and his many friends ask Alaskans for their prayers during this difficult time.” Several politicians took to social media Friday to express their condolences and remember Young. Gov. Mike Dunleavy called him “a great friend” and colleague of many years. Dunleavy thanked Young for helping form Alaska into the state it is today.
Congressman Don Young has been a great friend and colleague of mine for many years. I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of this amazing man who, in many ways, formed Alaska into the great state it is today.