Alice Stewart, a respected political adviser and CNN political commentator who worked on several GOP presidential campaigns, has passed away at the age of 58. Law enforcement officials confirmed that her body was found outdoors in northern Virginia early Saturday morning, with no foul play suspected. She was known for her political savvy and unwavering kindness, and her colleagues at CNN are mourning her loss. Stewart was born on March 11, 1966, in Atlanta and started her career as a local reporter and producer in Georgia before moving to Little Rock, Arkansas.
Stewart went on to work as the communications director for then-Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee and later for his presidential campaign in 2008. She also served in a similar role for the 2012 Republican presidential bids of former Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann and then former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum, also a former CNN commentator. Most recently, Stewart was the communications director for Texas Sen. Ted Cruz’s 2016 GOP campaign. CNN hired her as a political commentator ahead of the 2016 election, where she frequently appeared on air to provide insights on the political news of the day.
In addition to her role as a commentator, Stewart was the co-host of the podcast “Hot Mics From Left to Right” with fellow CNN commentator Maria Cardona. Cardona expressed shock at Stewart’s passing and described her as a special person in an often indecent and dirty industry. Stewart was known for bringing a conservative yet independent perspective to CNN, and she was committed to maintaining her common sense and decency in her analysis. She also served on the senior advisory committee at the Institute of Politics at Harvard University’s Kennedy School.
Outside of her work in politics and media, Stewart was an avid runner who frequently participated in road races and marathons. She shared photos from events like the TCS New York City Marathon and the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile race on social media. Colleagues and friends have remembered Stewart as a kind and intelligent presence in the political world, and her untimely passing has left many in shock and mourning. CNN CEO Mark Thompson expressed sadness at the loss of such an extraordinary individual and noted Stewart’s incomparable spark in the network’s coverage.
Stewart’s career in politics and media spanned several decades, with roles in multiple presidential campaigns and as a trusted commentator on CNN. Her contributions to the political landscape as a conservative voice with an independent perspective have been recognized and appreciated by colleagues and viewers alike. Stewart leaves behind a legacy of kindness, professionalism, and dedication to her work, and her absence will be deeply felt in the political and media communities. She will be remembered as a shining light in a sometimes tumultuous and divisive industry.
