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How did Don Young die? Alaska GOP Congressman, 88, mourned: 'He was a voice of reason'

Republican who served for 49 years passes away while returning home, social media mourns the loss of one of the longest-serving representatives

Alaska's Rep. Don Young tragically passed away on March 18, 2022, at the age of 88, his family has confirmed. A Congressman since 1973, Young was the 9th longest-serving US Congressman ever, having served for just over 49 years. He is now being mourned on social media as many from both Alaska and around the US remember his vital contributions to the state and the USA. 

Like some of his colleagues, Young planned to run for re-election in the 2022 midterms, in what was seen as an extremely safe seat. He announced his campaign in April 2021, while already being the longest-serving Republican in US history. Young began his storied career in 1973 after winning a special election and has been Alaska's Representative for over 70% of its statehood. 

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In December 2017, Young was bestowed with the title of Dean of the U.S. House, a moment acknowledging he was the longest-serving member of the chamber at the time. Despite his status, Young managed to avoid controversy even during the tumultuous Trump era and rarely made headlines unlike some of his colleagues, who were keen to promote their pro-Trump credentials.

How did Don Young die?

Confirming his death, Young's office said he died on a flight back home to Alaska. Young’s chief of staff Jack Ferguson noted that the Rep. lost consciousness while on the flight from Los Angeles to Seattle, and could not be resuscitated. "Everyone’s learning about it right at the moment. The phone’s ringing off the hook," he added in comments made to Anchorage Daily News. Further details were not available, but the statement did note that Young's wife Anne was with him on the flight. An exact cause of death is yet to be determined. 

As part of his re-election efforts, Young was scheduled to host fundraisers in Juneau and Anchorage next week. According to Ferguson, Young was keen to stay in Congress amidst the hopes that the GOP could flip control of the House. "He’s very clear of mind, spoke clearly about what he wanted to accomplish, set goals that he wanted to make happen, and was happy to be running," Ferguson added.

In perhaps a nice touch of irony, Young's successor will be decided, at least for the time being, through a special election. Under Alaska state law, the Governor must call a special election no sooner than two months from the date of his death, and within three months. 

Young mourned as 'an Alaska institution'

As news of his death quickly spread across social media, many users had only good things to say about Young. "Deeply saddened by the death of my friend and colleague, Rep. Don Young, who honorably served the state of Alaska in the House since 1973. My thoughts are with his family, friends, constituents, and loved ones during this difficult time," tweeted Rep. Strickland. Rep. Brown said, "I’m deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my colleague, Rep. Don Young. A tireless fighter for Alaska and an unparalleled public servant, he welcomed me warmly in the short time we served together. I am sending my condolences to his family, his friends, and all Alaskans." One user mourned, "RIP Don Young, the Chuck Grassley of Alaska and an absolute chad. He will be missed."

"Terrible to hear. Don Young was an Alaska institution who genuinely cared for his state. He’ll be dearly missed!" one person mourned. Another said, "Alaska, the United States, and the Congress have lost a remarkable public servant who was often a voice of reason in crazy times. I disagreed with him a lot, but I have no doubt he will go down in history as one of the most extraordinary representatives to serve the people." A third noted, "Don Young was the consumate Western politician. He was willing to give almost anything a hearing and see if he could find Alaska's angle in it -- he did his job."