Remembering Joe Lieberman: A Political Icon and Advocate for Unity and Faith

Political Community Honors Joe Lieberman at Funeral Service

Today, political dignitaries, family, and friends are gathering to honor the late Joe Lieberman at a funeral service in Stamford, Connecticut, the hometown of the four-term U.S. senator who passed away on March 27, 2024, in New York City from complications from a fall at the age of 82.

Early Life and Religious Upbringing

Joe Lieberman, who grew up as the son of a liquor store owner, was a self-described observant Jew who followed the rules of the Jewish Sabbath from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday. Lieberman once referred to Congregation Agudath Sholom in Stamford, where the service will be held, as "a place that gave me the first sense of religion; a very special uplift." He considered his adherence to the Jewish tradition as a valuable asset, fostering common values with religious Catholics and Protestants that made him proud of being an American.

Attendance and Recognition

Former Vice President Al Gore, who tapped Lieberman as his running mate in the 2000 presidential election, was expected to attend the funeral service, along with other top Connecticut Democrats including former Sen. Chris Dodd, Sens. Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy, and Gov. Ned Lamont. A second public memorial is anticipated to be held at a future date.

Political Legacy

Lieberman was known for his pragmatic, independent streak as a moderate Democrat who once ran as an independent to secure a fourth term in the Senate. Despite coming close to being Republican John McCain's running mate in 2008, conservatives hesitated due to his support for various rights and environmental causes, juxtaposed with a hawkish stance on military and national security matters.

Tribute from President Biden

President Joe Biden, who served 20 years in the Senate with Lieberman, described him as "principled, steadfast and unafraid to stand up for what he thought was right." Biden emphasized Lieberman's commitment to a shared purpose of serving something bigger than oneself, highlighting how he lived the values of his faith while working to heal the world's wounds.

Historical Significance

Lieberman's political career neared the threshold of making history as he came tantalizingly close to winning the vice presidency in the contentious 2000 presidential contest. The election was ultimately decided by a 537-vote margin victory for George W. Bush over Gore in Florida after a prolonged recount, legal challenges, and a Supreme Court decision. Notably, Lieberman was the first Jewish candidate on a major party’s presidential ticket.

Later Contributions and Family

Over the last decade, Lieberman played a significant role in leading No Labels, a centrist third-party movement, and was involved in efforts to offer unnamed candidates for president and vice president. He is survived by his wife, Hadassah, and their four children.