SEATTLE — Slade Gorton, former Republican U.S. senator from Washington state, died at the age of 92 in his home Wednesday.
Gorton's 1994 election was the last time any Republican was elected to be a senator or governor in Washington state. He served three terms as senator.
Gorton was the first Republican to call for an inquiry into President Nixon, and he was a key player in the Clinton impeachment, as well, as a member of the U.S. Senate.
Gorton was born and raised in Chicago and graduated from Dartmouth College and Columbia University Law School. He served in the U.S. Army and the Air Force reserve.
He served in public office for 40 years, including: Washington State House of Representatives 1959-1969; as Washington State Attorney General 1969-1981; as United States Senator 1981-87, 1989-2001. Gorton served as a member of the 9/11 Commission 2003-2004 and the Washington State Redistricting Commission in 2011.
U.S. Senator Daniel Evans said Washington state "has lost a great public servant."
"Slade Gorton led a career of extraordinary distinction and we will deeply miss his voice of reason, expressed clearly, forcefully, and honestly," Evans said.
U.S. Senator Patty Murray said Gorton was a "distinguished Washingtonian and steadfast leader."
"Slade reflected the best of our state and leaves behind a legacy that is mirrored in the scores of former staffers and other professional men and women who have been mentored by him, who are now spread throughout our state and nation, working to change lives and make our communities a better place—like they learned from Slade," she said. "My thoughts and sincere condolences are with Slade’s family during this difficult time, as well as all those who loved him. He was a colleague and friend who did so much for our state, and while his contributions won’t soon be forgotten, he will be incredibly missed."
Gov. Jay Inslee released the following statement Wednesday morning:
“Trudi and I join all Washingtonians in mourning the loss of Sen. Slade Gorton. Slade loved this state and spent decades in its service.
“We worked together representing Washington in Congress and, while we didn’t always agree, he leaves an important legacy for the state and the nation.
“In the U.S. Senate, Slade was an influential member of the Armed Services Committee, where his own service in the Air Force and the Army gave him a deep understanding of the military and the people who serve our country.
“Slade was an important voice in pushing for the clean-up of Hanford, and he fought for health care, the arts and transportation solutions. He worked to keep orca whales out of captivity and in Washington's waters.
"His leadership on the 9/11 Commission put aside partisanship to help our country start to heal and prevent future terrorist attacks.
"When Slade served as Washington's attorney general, he argued before the U.S. Supreme Court and helped to promote women in the legal field, including former Gov. Christine Gregoire. His career in public service began in the Washington State House of Representatives, where he quickly earned the respect of his colleagues and worked his way up to House majority leader.
“I send deep condolences to his family and friends. Washington state flags will be lowered in his honor on the day of his memorial service.”
