Former US Senator and VP Candidate Dies at Age 82

Joe Lieberman, a distinguished figure in American politics and former vice presidential contender, passed away on Wednesday afternoon at the age of 82, his family announced. The cause of his demise was attributed to complications following injuries from a fall.

In a heartfelt statement, Lieberman's family conveyed, "Former United States Senator Joseph I. Lieberman died this afternoon, March 27, 2024, in New York City due to complications from a fall," as reported by CNN's Jake Tapper on social media.

"At the time of his passing, he was surrounded by his loving wife, Hadassah, and family members," the statement added, emphasizing, "Senator Lieberman’s love of God, his family, and America was a constant throughout his public service career."

Lieberman's life will be celebrated in a funeral service at Congregation Agudath Sholom in Stamford, Connecticut, his place of birth, on Friday. Tapper also mentioned that a memorial service is planned for a future date.

Elected to the Senate in 1988, Lieberman represented Connecticut in the upper chamber from 1989 to 2013. His political journey included a notable moment in 2006 when, after losing the primary, he ran as an independent in the general election and secured another term. This marked his transition to an independent politician, although he continued to caucus with Democrats.

Lieberman's rise to national prominence came in 2000 when he was chosen by then-Vice President Al Gore as his vice-presidential running mate, making him the first Jewish candidate on a major party's presidential ticket. The Gore-Lieberman ticket was narrowly defeated by George W. Bush and Dick Cheney after a prolonged and contentious election process.

Throughout his tenure in the Senate, Lieberman was recognized for his bipartisanship, often reaching across the aisle to collaborate with Republicans. This approach was evident in his public support for Donald Trump in 2017 and his readiness to voice criticisms of former President Barack Obama, as highlighted by Newsweek.

Lieberman leaves behind a legacy as a Yale-educated attorney who was actively involved in the civil rights movement before embarking on his political career. He is mourned by his wife, Hadassah Lieberman, three adult children, and a nation grateful for his service.