Statement from President Clinton on the Passing of David Pryor


For Immediate Release: April 20, 2024

Contact: press@presidentclinton.com

Statement from President Clinton on the Passing of David Pryor

Hillary and I are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend David Pryor, one of Arkansas’ greatest servant leaders and one of the finest people I have ever known.

As state representative, U.S. representative, governor, and senator, he fought for progressive policies that helped us put the divided past behind us and move into a brighter future together.  He was always one of America’s greatest advocates for the elderly, waging long battles to lower the cost of prescription drugs and to improve nursing homes and in-home care to help more people live in dignity.

David made politics personal—from his famed retail campaigning to his ability to calmly and confidently explain tough votes to his constituents.  He was honest, compassionate, and full of common sense.  He really loved the people he represented, and they loved him back.

I first met him and Barbara in 1966 when David was running for Congress, and over the next 58 years he would be my mentor, confidant, supporter, and above all, friend.  Having him and Dale Bumpers in the senate when I was president was an extraordinary gift.  I never felt far from home, and always trusted the unvarnished advice he gave, especially when the going got tough.  I’ll also always be grateful that he served as the inaugural dean of the Clinton School of Public Service, where his very presence embodied the nobility and joy of public service.

I will miss David very much, but we can all take comfort in knowing his legacy will live on in the work of the Pryor Center, in the citizen service of his family, and in all those living better lives because of his service.  Hillary and I send our love and prayers to Barbara; David, Scott, and Mark; his grandchildren; and all the other people who also loved him.