'Grateful for his service': Tributes pour in as former Connecticut Senator Joe Lieberman dies at 82

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Former US Senator Joe Lieberman, a prominent figure in American politics known for his independent streak and contentious yet impactful career, passed away in New York City on Wednesday, March 27. He was 82 years old.

Lieberman's family confirmed his death, citing complications from a fall.

Divergence from Party Lines

A Democrat-turned-independent, Lieberman rose to national prominence as the vice-presidential nominee alongside Al Gore in the tumultuous 2000 election, narrowly losing to George W Bush.

His political journey was marked by a willingness to break from party lines, earning both praise and criticism from across the political spectrum.

Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy, a Democrat, remembered Lieberman as a singular figure. “In an era of political carbon copies, Joe Lieberman was a singularity. One of one,” said Murphy. “He fought and won for what he believed was right and for the state he adored.”

Despite his divergence from the Democratic Party on certain issues, Lieberman remained committed to causes such as gay rights, civil rights, and environmental advocacy.

In the aftermath of his vice-presidential bid, Lieberman continued to make waves in politics, notably by joining the No Labels movement, a centrist third-party initiative aimed at bridging partisan divides. His involvement drew both admiration and opposition, with some fearing it would impact electoral outcomes, particularly in favor of Republicans.

The group called his death a “profound loss” and remembered him as “a singular figure in American political life who always put his country before party.”

Throughout his career, Lieberman was no stranger to controversy. He notably scolded President Bill Clinton on the Senate floor during the Monica Lewinsky scandal, despite later voting against Clinton's impeachment.

Praise from Peers

Reflecting on Lieberman's legacy, former Vice President Al Gore expressed profound sadness at the passing of his one-time running mate, highlighting Lieberman's dedication to equality and fairness, exemplified by his involvement in the civil rights movement in the 1960s.

Gore called Lieberman “a truly gifted leader, whose affable personality and strong will made him a force to be reckoned with," adding, “It was an honor to stand side-by-side with him on the campaign trail."

Lieberman's political journey also included a bid for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2004 and a near-selection as Republican John McCain's running mate in 2008. Despite their close friendship and shared views on national security, McCain ultimately chose Sarah Palin due to backlash from conservative quarters.

Former President George W Bush, who emerged victorious over the Gore-Lieberman ticket in 2000, remembered Lieberman as a principled and dignified public servant, regardless of electoral outcomes.

“In both loss and victory, Joe Lieberman was always a gentleman. I’m grateful for Joe’s principled service to our country and for the dignity and patriotism he brought to public life," Bush said, adding, “Joe was as fine an American as they come and one of the most decent people I met during my time in Washington.”

Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, a close friend of Lieberman's, expressed devastation at the news of his passing, reflecting on their camaraderie alongside Senator John McCain, whom they affectionately referred to as "the three amigos."

“The good news, he is in the hands of the loving God,” Graham said. “The bad news, John McCain is giving him an earful about how screwed up things are.”

Lieberman's influence extended beyond partisan lines, evidenced by his pivotal role in passing the Affordable Care Act in 2010, despite differences with former President Barack Obama, the New York Times reported.

“Joe Lieberman and I didn’t always see eye-to-eye,” Obama said in a statement, “but he had an extraordinary career in public service, including four decades spent fighting for the people of Connecticut.”

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, who interacted with Lieberman during discussions about the No Labels movement, offered condolences. “I am sad to lose him as a friend and as an example for how to conduct yourself in public life,” he said, adding that “the country is greater for his example and lesser today without his fearless leadership.”

Funeral Details

Joe Lieberman's funeral is scheduled for Friday, March 29, at Congregation Agudath Sholom in his hometown of Stamford, Connecticut, with additional memorial services to be announced later.

He is survived by his wife, Hadassah, and their four children, per the Associated Press.