CNN political analyst and experienced political adviser, Alice Stewart, has died at the age of 58. Her body was found early on Saturday morning, May 18, in the Belle View neighborhood of northern Virginia. It’s thought that she faced a medical emergency, with no suspicion of foul play.
Stewart, born in Atlanta, Georgia on March 11, 1966, initiated her career as a local reporter and producer in her home state. She later relocated to Little Rock, Arkansas, working as a news anchor. It was here that Stewart’s political career began to flourish when she took on the role of communications director for then-Governor of Arkansas, Mike Huckabee. She was instrumental in Huckabee’s 2008 presidential campaign and subsequently served in similar capacities for presidential candidates Michele Bachmann and Rick Santorum in 2012, and Ted Cruz in 2016.
In the run-up to the 2016 election, Stewart joined CNN as a political commentator. She quickly gained recognition for her straightforward analysis and comprehensive understanding of Republican politics. She frequently appeared on CNN’s “The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer,” making her last appearance just a day before her death.
Stewart was remembered warmly by her CNN colleagues. Chief political correspondent Dana Bash, who had known Stewart for nearly 20 years, characterized her as a forthright individual. Maria Cardona, co-host with Stewart on the podcast “Hot Mics From Left to Right,” expressed her sorrow by calling Stewart a “loving, shining light.”
“Alice was a wonderful and talented commentator,” Bash said. “Her insights into Republican politics were invaluable, and her presence on our panels will be deeply missed.”
Stewart was known for her ability to gracefully handle the often volatile landscape of Republican politics. Former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson commended Stewart for her belief that “politics was about making friends and not creating enemies.”
Apart from her professional accomplishments, Stewart was also an enthusiastic runner and frequently competed in road races across the country. She regularly posted pictures from her races on social media, which included the TCS New York City Marathon and the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile race.
CNN anchors Wolf Blitzer and Jessica Dean honored Stewart, emphasizing her professionalism, expertise, and affable demeanor. “Alice was an exceptional woman and a valued friend and colleague,” Blitzer said. “Her contributions to our network and the broader political discourse will not be forgotten.”
Stewart also contributed to the senior advisory committee at the Institute of Politics at Harvard University’s Kennedy School in Massachusetts, where she was a former fellow. Her commitment to mentoring future political leaders was well acknowledged.
The news of Stewart’s death brought about a wave of condolences and shared memories on social media. “Alice Stewart was a beacon of light in the often murky world of politics,” Cardona tweeted. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.”
