Nancy Kassebaum Baker, a former Republican senator from Kansas, passed away at the age of 94. Known for pioneering new ground in politics, she was the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate without having a husband previously served there. Her son, Bill Kassebaum, confirmed her death, citing natural causes.
Kassebaum Baker was deeply committed to her home state of Kansas, representing it in the Senate for 18 years. Her independent-mindedness often set her apart, even leading her at times to oppose her party’s stance.
Her political career began in 1978 when she was elected to the Senate. She served three terms and retired in 1997. She was the daughter of Alf Landon, Kansas governor and unsuccessful 1936 presidential nominee. Her moderate Republican stance led her to occasionally break party lines, capturing national attention early in her political journey.
Kassebaum Baker’s legislative efforts included co-authoring a notable 1996 health insurance law with Democratic Senator Ted Kennedy of Massachusetts. Her support for an assault weapons ban under President Bill Clinton stirred some controversy but underscored her willingness to vote based on principle.
Highly popular in Kansas, she secured re-election with impressive vote margins, 76% in 1984 and 74% in 1990. In 1996, she married former Republican Senator Howard Baker, marking the first union of two former senators.
Howard Baker, her husband, had significant political roles including serving as President Reagan’s chief of staff and as ambassador to Japan under President George W. Bush. He passed away in 2014.
Despite leaving Congress, Kassebaum Baker’s involvement in public service continued, including participating in a bipartisan campaign finance reform commission during the Clinton era. Her later political affiliations saw her endorse Democrats in several Kansas elections, like Democratic Governor Laura Kelly.
Following the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, Kassebaum Baker called for President Trump’s impeachment, expressing her discontent with the political situation.
Throughout her career, she remained deeply connected to Kansas, expressing enduring affection for the state’s landscapes even during her husband’s diplomatic assignment in Japan.
The Associated Press contributed additional insights to this report.