Remembering Alice Stewart: A Veteran Political Commentator

Alice Stewart, a veteran political adviser and CNN political commentator known for her work on GOP presidential campaigns, passed away at the age of 58. Law enforcement officials confirmed that her body was discovered outdoors in the Bellevue neighborhood in northern Virginia early Saturday morning. There is no suspicion of foul play, with officers believing that a medical emergency was the cause.

Mark Thompson, the CEO of CNN, expressed his deep sadness in an email to staff on Saturday, remembering Alice as a beloved friend and colleague. He praised her as a political veteran and Emmy Award-winning journalist who brought a unique energy to CNN's coverage. Alice was admired for her political expertise and her unwavering kindness, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she worked with.

Alice Stewart was born in Atlanta on March 11, 1966.

Stewart began her career as a local reporter and producer in Georgia. She then moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, where she became a news anchor, as she shared with Harvard International Review. After that, she worked as the communications director for then-Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee’s office. She continued in a similar role for his presidential campaign in 2008.

In addition to her work with Gov. Huckabee, Stewart also served as the communications director for the presidential bids of former Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann and former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum. She has also been a former CNN commentator. Most recently, Stewart held the position of communications director for Texas Sen. Ted Cruz’s 2016 campaign.

CNN brought Stewart on board as a political commentator before the 2016 election. She was a regular presence on air, offering her perspective on the latest political developments. Most recently, she was seen on "The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer" on Friday.

Suzanne Malveaux, Alice Stewart and Charles Blow inside the CNN Grill during the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Suzanne Malveaux, Alice Stewart and Charles Blow inside the CNN Grill during the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina.

David S. Holloway

Stewart shared in a 2020 interview with Harvard Political Review about her role as a commentator for CNN. She mentioned that CNN values the perspective she brings to the table.

In her own words, Stewart described her position at CNN as being a conservative voice while also being an independent thinker. She emphasized that she does not blindly follow any party line, she is not against Trump, and she maintains her common sense and decency in her opinions.

Stewart was known for co-hosting the podcast "Hot Mics From Left to Right" with fellow CNN commentator Maria Cardona. She also sat on the senior advisory committee at the Institute of Politics at Harvard University's Kennedy School, where she had previously been a fellow.

This report includes contributions from CNN's Kayla Gallagher.

Editor's P/S:

Alice Stewart's untimely passing is a profound loss for the political commentary landscape. Her keen insights, unwavering kindness, and fearless advocacy for independent thought will be deeply missed. As a veteran political adviser and Emmy Award-winning journalist, she brought a unique perspective to CNN, offering valuable analysis and fostering meaningful dialogue.

Stewart's journey from local reporter to national commentator underscores her commitment to public service. Her work with presidential campaigns and her role as a communications director honed her understanding of the political process. As a CNN commentator, she fearlessly shared her conservative views while maintaining her independence and common sense. Her ability to bridge perspectives and engage in respectful discourse made her an invaluable voice in the often-divisive world of politics.