Former Arkansas governor and U.S. Sen. David Pryor, a beloved Democratic political figure in the state, passed away at the age of 89 in Little Rock. He died of natural causes surrounded by his family, his son Mark Pryor confirmed. David Pryor, known for his dedication to public service, had survived a heart attack, stroke, and a battle with COVID-19 in 2020.
Mark Pryor, a former U.S. senator, praised his father as a role model for politicians and citizens alike, highlighting his contributions to improving Arkansas. David Pryor was considered one of the state’s political giants, along with Bill Clinton and Dale Bumpers, and remained active in public life, including serving on the University of Arkansas’s Board of Trustees and attending Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’s inauguration in 2023.
President Clinton and other political figures paid tribute to David Pryor, acknowledging his dedication to progressive policies and his deep connection with the people he represented. Known for his retail campaigning and ability to pass beneficial legislation, Pryor was praised for his honesty, compassion, and commitment to Arkansas.
Colleagues from both sides of the political spectrum expressed their condolences, recognizing Pryor’s impact on Arkansas and his legacy as a dedicated public servant. His contributions to progressive legislation, advocacy for the elderly, and efforts to improve taxpayer rights were highlighted as key aspects of his distinguished career.
David Pryor’s political journey began in the 1960s, and despite facing setbacks like a defeat in a Senate race in 1972, he continued to serve his state with passion and dedication. His commitment to public service and his efforts to improve Arkansas were remembered by friends, colleagues, and constituents alike.
He mentioned that they often found up to 15 beds in a single room.
He vividly remembered the feelings of loneliness, neglect, despair, anxiety, and especially boredom in those cold and sterile nursing homes. He described them as essentially being human warehouses for the elderly.
Mr. Pryor decided not to run for reelection in 1996 and retired from elective office at the end of his term in early 1997.
Despite stepping down from politics, he remained active in the public eye. He served as the first dean of the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service and temporarily chaired the state Democratic Party in 2008 after a tragic incident.
As a member of the University of Arkansasâs Board of Trustees, Mr. Pryor opposed a $160 million plan to expand the Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in 2016, criticizing the competitive nature of college football programs.
Mr. Pryor and his wife, Barbara, had three children.
– By Andrew Demillo
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