BOISE, Idaho – Dirk Kempthorne, a prominent figure in Idaho politics and former U.S. Interior Secretary, has passed away at the age of 74. His family revealed the news in a statement on Saturday, noting that he died on Friday evening in Boise. While no specific cause was mentioned, it was known that Kempthorne had been diagnosed with colon cancer the previous year.
Kempthorne’s family reflected on his legacy, stating, “Beyond his public service, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose greatest joy came from time spent with family and the people he met along the way.” They emphasized his unique ability to connect with others, highlighting his knack for remembering names, stories, and personal details that made individuals feel valued.
A member of the Republican Party, Kempthorne began his political career as the mayor of Boise in 1985, at just 34 years old. His tenure was marked by significant developments, including a pivotal agreement that led to the construction of a convention center, revitalizing the downtown area. Following seven successful years as mayor, he transitioned to the U.S. Senate in 1992, filling the seat left vacant by Sen. Steve Symms.
During his Senate term, Kempthorne played a crucial role in authoring legislation that aimed to relieve state and local governments from unfunded federal mandates, which was signed into law by then-President Bill Clinton.
In 1998, rather than seeking reelection to the Senate, Kempthorne opted to run for governor of Idaho, winning decisively with more than two-thirds of the vote against his Democratic opponent. His leadership as governor was characterized by a commitment to public education, family welfare, and transformative investments in transportation infrastructure.
In 2006, Kempthorne was appointed by President George W. Bush as the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, a position he held until Bush left office. Notably, he resided on a houseboat along the Potomac River during his tenure. Reflecting on Kempthorne’s character, President Bush remarked, “Dirk was one of the finest public servants I ever knew because he was one of the finest men.” He praised Kempthorne’s dedication to natural resource stewardship and his thoughtful approach to environmental issues.
Despite facing criticism from environmentalists for his industry-friendly policies, Kempthorne made headlines in 2008 by advocating for the polar bear to be designated as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act due to climate change impacts. His commitment to this cause was so strong that he threatened to resign when he faced pressure to reverse the decision, ultimately receiving support from President Bush.
Idaho Governor Brad Little acknowledged Kempthorne’s lasting influence, stating, “As Governor, Dirk left an enduring mark on our state.” He noted Kempthorne’s collaboration with his wife, Patricia, in championing initiatives that benefitted children, families, and public education.
In a recent Q&A session with the George W. Bush Presidential Center, Kempthorne recounted his efforts to help evacuate nearly 400 U.S. citizens and Afghan allies from Afghanistan amid the chaotic military withdrawal in 2021. His determined fundraising and logistical efforts included arranging for chartered buses and an Airbus A340 to ensure safe passage for those in peril.
Kempthorne shared a poignant moment from this operation, where, in a moment of desperation, he prayed for guidance and was inspired by a vision that ultimately allowed more evacuees to escape. “That night, at a total loss for answers, alone, I knelt in prayer,” he recalled. His vision of Mother Mary holding the infant Jesus led to a practical solution that increased the number of people evacuated.
Dirk Kempthorne is survived by his wife, Patricia, and their children, Heather and Jeff, along with their families, leaving behind a legacy of public service, community engagement, and personal connection.
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Johnson reported from Seattle.
