OPINION — Jon Kyl was a close friend for all of my adult life. Prior to becoming a journalist, I was also part of his political team, serving, for example, as general chairman of his first campaign for the U.S. Senate in 1994.
Jon passed away on Sept. 17, 2026. Services were held for him at Valley Presbyterian Church, where he was a long-time member, Oct. 24. I was a eulogist. In my eulogy, I consciously avoided anything remotely touching on today’s politics. However, I will say this: This country desperately needs political leaders who conduct themselves in office the way Jon did. Below are my remarks:
A few years ago, Kim Wold told me that Jon had said that he wanted me to speak at his funeral.
