Alice Stewart, a longtime CNN commentator and former Republican political adviser, has died unexpectedly at the age of 58. Her contributions to the network and the political arena have been deeply mourned by colleagues and friends.
CNN is mourning the sudden and untimely passing of Alice Stewart, a renowned commentator and esteemed Republican political advisor, who passed away at the age of 58. The cause of her death is believed to be a medical emergency, and no foul play is suspected, according to law enforcement officials.
Stewart's tenure at CNN since 2016 as a commentator brought a distinctive perspective to the network's coverage, earning her widespread recognition for her sharp political insights and unwavering kindness. "Alice was a very dear friend and colleague to all of us at CNN," CNN CEO Mark Thompson wrote in a heartfelt message to staff. "Her political savvy and unwavering kindness were unmatched, leaving a deep void in our hearts."
Prior to her association with CNN, Stewart held significant communications roles in Republican politics, including communications director for Texas Sen. Ted Cruz's 2016 presidential campaign, as well as for Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee's 2008 and 2016 campaigns. Her expertise in navigating the political landscape was honed during her stints as communications director for former Minnesota Rep. Michelle Bachmann and former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum.
Cruz expressed his profound grief on Saturday, stating, "Heartbreaking. Alice was wonderful and talented and a dear friend." He acknowledged her unwavering love for America and her boundless enthusiasm for life. "She will be deeply missed. May God's comfort and peace be upon her loved ones. RIP."
Stewart's sharp intellect and unwavering compassion extended beyond the political realm. She had an extensive media career before entering politics, serving as a reporter and anchor in Little Rock, Arkansas and Savannah, Georgia. Her early experience as an associate producer in her hometown of Atlanta laid the foundation for her future success.
At the time of her passing, Stewart was co-hosting a podcast with fellow CNN commentator Maria Cardona. Her contributions to CNN programming were invaluable, providing a unique perspective as a Republican who voted for Donald Trump.
Stewart's dedication to her craft was evident in her open and honest approach to political discussions. "My role at CNN is to be a conservative commentator; I provide my perspective on the politics of the day from my conservative viewpoint," she explained to Harvard Political Review. She acknowledged the nuances within the conservative movement, expressing support for President Trump while also openly addressing her reservations about his demeanor.
Throughout Saturday, CNN paid tribute to Stewart, honoring her legacy and mourning her loss. Tributes also poured in online from friends and colleagues, who described her as a brilliant, compassionate, and humorous friend.
CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer praised Stewart's ability to elevate conversations: "We always invited her to come on my show because we knew we would be a little bit smarter at the end of that conversation."
Fox News' Kayleigh McEnany shared her condolences, acknowledging Stewart's unwavering faith and the void her passing has left behind. "Alice Stewart was a kind, talented, and faith-filled woman of God. She will be sincerely missed. My heart and my prayers go out to her family."
Alice Stewart's contributions to the media landscape and the Republican political arena will be deeply missed. Her sharp insights, unwavering kindness, and unwavering belief in her country will forever be remembered by those who knew her and the countless others who were touched by her work.
