Former U.S. Senator Jon Kyl of Arizona died on Wednesday night following a neurological disorder, according to Gordon James, a longtime friend of the Kyl family.

Kyl had withdrawn from public life in December 2025 after announcing a dementia diagnosis.

His congressional career spanned nearly three decades, including service in both the House and Senate, and he served as Senate minority whip during his last full term.

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs posted that Arizonans are mourning Kyl’s loss, describing him as a dedicated statesman who cared deeply for the state.

Major water‑policy achievements

Before entering Congress, Kyl helped draft Arizona’s 1980 groundwater code, creating a regulatory framework for managing the state’s scarce water resources.

In 2004 he authored legislation that secured a large tribal water‑rights settlement for the Gila River Indian Community, delivering enough water to fill roughly 313,500 Olympic‑size swimming pools each year.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell praised Kyl’s “legendary” work ethic in a 2012 floor speech, noting his behind‑the‑scenes effort on the settlement.

Recognition and legacy

Arizona State University named its Kyl Center for Water Policy after him, highlighting his practical approach and generosity with time and expertise.

Former Arizona Governor Doug Ducey, who considered Kyl a mentor, recalled the senator’s habit of reading legislative material on flights and called him a “giant” in the Senate.