Governor, Alaska Delegation share thoughts on death of former Sen. Mike Gravel

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - A number of lawmakers are sharing their thoughts following the passing of former U.S Sen. Mike Gravel.

Gravel represented Alaska as a Democrat in the Senate from 1969 to 1981. He died Saturday at the age of 91.

Gov. Mike Dunleavy and First Lady Rose Dunleavy issued the following statement on the passing of Gravel.

“Mike committed his life to his country and to public service through his work with the military, Alaska State Legislature and the U.S. Senate. His legacy is of leadership and commitment to fight for Alaskans and Alaska. We offer our sincere condolences to the Gravel family in this time of mourning.”

Sen. Dan Sullivan and Rep. Don Young took to social media to share their thoughts.

Sullivan wrote in a Twitter post in apart, “Saddened by news that former Sen. Mike Gravel has passed away. Like so many in our state, Mike saw Alaska as a land of opportunity.”

Saddened by news that former Sen. Mike Gravel has passed away. Like so many in our state, Mike saw Alaska as a land of opportunity. He moved here at a young age & became involved in building our great state.

Julie’s & my thoughts and prayers go out to Mike’s family & loved ones. https://t.co/SOpi4XPoNs
— Sen. Dan Sullivan (@SenDanSullivan) June 27, 2021

Young also took to Twitter to say in part, “I’m sad to report that we’ve lost my former colleague, Senator Mike Gravel. Throughout his career in public service, his commitment to Alaska and our nation was clear.”

I’m sad to report that we’ve lost my former colleague, Senator Mike Gravel. Throughout his career in public service, his commitment to Alaska and our nation was clear. Please join me in keeping his family in your prayers at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/2TbIMWCgnp
— Rep. Don Young (@repdonyoung) June 27, 2021

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, rounding out the Alaska Delegation, posted the following statement on Twitter.

“My condolences to the family and loved ones of former US Senator Mike Gravel. From his service in the US Army to the Alaska Legislature and the US Senate, Mike Gravel dedicated his life to public service—not only to Alaska, but the nation. We thank him for his life of service.”

Down in the lower 48, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont took to Facebook to share a statement.

“Jane and I are saddened by the passing of Sen. Mike Gravel. He was dedicated to ending forever wars and bringing more Americans into the political process. His courage will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with his loved ones.”

Dunleavy ordered that U.S. flags and Alaska state flags fly at half-staff on a date to be determined by the Gravel family.

Editor’s Note: This story was updated after publication with a statement from Sen. Lisa Murkowski.