CNN Mourns the Loss of Political Commentator Alice Stewart at 58

Alice Stewart, a renowned CNN political commentator and veteran GOP adviser, passed away at the age of 58. Stewart’s body was discovered outdoors in the Belle View neighborhood of northern Virginia early on Saturday, May 18, 2024. Law enforcement officials have indicated that no foul play is suspected and believe a medical emergency likely occurred.

Date and Location of Alice Stewart’s passing

On the morning of May 18, residents of the Belle View neighborhood in northern Virginia were stunned to learn of Stewart’s sudden passing. Stewart was found in an outdoor area, and initial reports from law enforcement suggested that she had likely suffered a medical emergency.

No signs of foul play were evident, leading authorities to rule out any criminal activity. This conclusion brought some relief but also deepened the shock and sadness among those who knew her.

In a statement, the local police department emphasized the preliminary nature of their findings, noting that a thorough investigation would still be conducted to confirm the exact cause of death.

Friends and colleagues expressed their disbelief, describing Stewart as a vibrant and active individual who had shown no signs of health issues leading up to her untimely demise. The medical examiner’s office is expected to release a detailed report after conducting a full autopsy.

Shift from Journalism to Political Communications

Born on March 11, 1966, in Atlanta, Stewart began her career as a local reporter and producer in Georgia. She later moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, to work as a news anchor.

Her transition from journalism to political communications marked a significant phase in her career. Stewart served as the communications director for then-Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, both in his office and during his 2008 presidential campaign.

Stewart’s expertise was sought after by several other Republican presidential candidates. She played pivotal roles as communications director for Michele Bachmann’s 2012 campaign, Rick Santorum’s 2012 campaign, and Ted Cruz’s 2016 campaign.

Her work in these high-profile campaigns cemented her reputation as a skilled and strategic political communicator. Notably, she was known for her ability to craft compelling narratives and manage crisis communications effectively.

Contribution to CNN and Media Presence

In 2016, Stewart joined CNN as a political commentator, where she became a familiar face providing conservative perspectives on various political issues. Her insightful commentary and ability to articulate conservative viewpoints with clarity and fairness made her a valued contributor to the network.

Stewart was known for her balanced approach, often bridging the gap between differing political views while maintaining her conservative stance. Her last appearance was on Friday, May 17, 2024, on “The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer.”

Mark Thompson, CEO of CNN, described Stewart as “a very dear friend and colleague to all of us at CNN” in an email to the staff. He praised her political savvy and unwavering kindness, emphasizing the profound impact she had on the network’s coverage and the heavy hearts mourning her loss.

Stewart’s death has elicited an outpouring of grief and tributes from colleagues and politicians alike. Ted Cruz, recalling her as a dear friend, described her as “wonderful and talented,” highlighting her fierce love for America and her zest for life.

Asa Hutchinson, former Arkansas governor, emphasized Stewart’s commitment to making friends rather than enemies in politics, a testament to her approach of fostering goodwill and understanding.

CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer and chief political correspondent Dana Bash also shared heartfelt memories. Blitzer noted Stewart’s ability to make conversations smarter and more insightful, while Bash appreciated Stewart’s straightforward and informed contributions to political panels.

Maria Cardona, Stewart’s co-host on the podcast “Hot Mics From Left to Right,” expressed her disbelief and sorrow, underscoring Stewart’s role as a loving and positive force in the often contentious world of politics.

Apart from her professional accomplishments, Stewart was an avid runner, often sharing her experiences from various road races on social media. She ran in prominent events like the TCS New York City Marathon and the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile race. Her passion for running was a significant part of her life, reflecting her dedication and discipline. Stewart often used her running experiences as a metaphor for her approach to life and work, emphasizing persistence, resilience, and the importance of setting and achieving goals.

Alice Stewart’s sudden passing leaves a void in the worlds of journalism and political commentary. Her career, marked by significant contributions to Republican campaigns and her influential role at CNN, showcased her expertise and passion for politics.

Her unexpected death is a reminder of the fragility of life and the lasting impact one person can have on many. Stewart’s contributions to political discourse and her efforts to bridge divides in an increasingly polarized environment stand as a testament to her character and professional dedication.

As the investigation into her death continues, her legacy will undoubtedly endure in the memories of those she touched throughout her remarkable career.