David Gergen, an esteemed political advisor who served four U.S. presidents and was a respected political commentator, died at the age of 83 on Thursday.
Gergen, widely known for his bipartisan influence and dedication to public service, passed away at a retirement home in Lexington, Massachusetts, after succumbing to Lewy body dementia, as the New York Post reports.
A towering figure in American politics, Gergen's career began in the 1960s with his service in the U.S. Navy. This early dedication to public service set the stage for a White House career that started in 1971. Under President Richard Nixon, he began his White House journey in the realm of speechwriting, a skill that would later bolster his reputation as a political communicator.
Gergen's talent shone brightly through the subsequent decades. During former President Gerald Ford's administration, he served as director of communication, a role he would reprise under President Ronald Reagan.
One of his notable contributions during Reagan's 1980 campaign was crafting the impactful line, "Are you better off than you were four years ago?" This rhetorical question is remembered as one of those moments when, according to Gergen himself, a communicator might "strike gold."
His ability to cut through political noise also earned him a place in former President Bill Clinton’s administration. Starting as a counselor in 1993, he served for about a year, offering strategic advice during a time of change and challenge for the presidency.
After leaving the White House, Gergen found a new platform in the media as an editor, columnist, and political analyst for organizations such as CNN, PBS, and NPR. This phase of his career allowed him to reach a broader audience, sharing his insights on American politics with clarity and balance.
Additionally, he contributed his expertise to the American Enterprise Institute, reflecting a career-long commitment to policy and governance. In academia, Gergen left an indelible mark on the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.
As a professor of public service emeritus, he influenced countless students, encouraging them to commit to public service much like he had done throughout his life. His teaching tenure at Harvard is remembered for nurturing future leaders with a foundation in integrity and character.
The impact of his life was echoed in tributes from those who knew and worked with him. Hannah Riley Bowles from Harvard reflected on Gergen’s principled leadership, noting his unmatched character and integrity.
His kindness and his ability to see the "goodness in every person" were emphasized. Bowles captured Gergen’s essence by acknowledging his dedication to serving those aspiring to make a difference.
Former Vice President Al Gore paid tribute to Gergen’s ability to bypass political divisiveness, focusing instead on the core needs of the American populace. "His innate interest in helping others," Gore noted, "was what made him so skillful." Gore spoke of his gratitude for Gergen's friendship and professional influence, highlighting his devotion to doing good in the world.
Maria Shriver was among those who acknowledged him as a consummate professional. She remarked on his passion for politics and enduring love for service to the nation, a sentiment that resonated throughout his various career endeavors.
The legacy of David Gergen will be honored privately with a burial scheduled for Monday. A more comprehensive tribute is anticipated to take place at Harvard in the weeks ahead, where colleagues, friends, and admirers will gather to celebrate his exceptional contributions to the nation.
In reflecting on his work, Gergen once noted, “Rhetorical questions have great power.” It is certain that throughout his life, his questions and actions wielded significant influence, impacting presidential policies and public discourse, always striving for a better America. As reflections and memories pour in, David Gergen's legacy as a devoted public servant and leader of integrity endures.
