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BORN
1938
DIED
2024
Steve Symms Obituary
Steve Symms was a staunch conservative and longtime Republican elected official, serving four terms in Congress and two as a United States senator for Idaho.
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Read the full obituary in Legacy's headline news section.
(Photo: Tom Williams/Roll Call/Getty Images)
6 Entries
Christopher Lay
August 24, 2024
In 1972 Steve Symms successfully ran for Congress in Idaho's 1st district. His campaign and election drew nationwide attention as he was a principled advocate for less government and more individual freedom and helped set a trend in the GOP that culminated with the election of Ronald Reagan in 1980, as well as his own election to the US Senate by defeating the very liberal incumbent Frank Church. I had the pleasure of working on the late Senator Jim McClure's first campaign for Senate in 1972 and worked some for Symms that year as well. After the election Steve invited me to join his Washington staff as senior legislative assistant, something for which I will always be grateful as it helped launch my own career. I have many fond memories of working for Steve throughout the '70s and briefly during his first year as a Senator. Steve Symms was known for his adherence to principle even when that was unpopular with the Washington Establishment's UniParty. One of his most courageous acts as a GOP congressman was to strongly support Ronald Reagan's campaign for the GOP nomination in 1976 against then president Ford; that took great courage at the time and it was an example of Steve's determination to put principle over expedient politics. Thank you, Steve.
E R
August 21, 2024
My deepest sympathy is with Steve´s family and friends during this time of grief and sorrow. May the fond memories of your dear loved one always be cherished. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Matthew J. McGuire
August 14, 2024
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Larry Craig Ret USS
August 14, 2024
Steve was a friend ( trusted friend) in the Senate. He was also Idaho's best friend and worker.
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Jim Dwyer
August 12, 2024
God bless Steve ! He went instantly Home with our dear Lord
Elizabeth Bell
August 12, 2024
RIP Steve Symms
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