Political dignitaries, family, and friends are gathering in Stamford, Connecticut to honor the late Jo Lieberman who recently passed away at the age of 82. Lieberman, a four-term U.S. senator and the son of a liquor store owner, almost became the first Jewish vice president in 2000. His funeral service is being held at Congregation Agudath Sholom in Stamford, a congregation that played a key role in his upbringing as an observant Jew. Former Vice President Al Gore, who ran with Lieberman in 2000, and top Connecticut Democrats are expected to attend the service.
Lieberman was known for his pragmatic, independent streak as a moderate Democrat. He ended up running as an independent to secure his fourth term in the Senate and almost became John McCain’s running mate in 2008. Lieberman supported gay rights, civil rights, abortion rights, and environmental causes while also taking a hawkish stance on military and national security matters. President Joe Biden described Lieberman as principled and unafraid to stand up for what he believed in. Lieberman was a strong advocate for serving something bigger than oneself and worked to repair the world’s wounds.
In the fiercely contested 2000 presidential election, Lieberman was the first Jewish candidate on a major party’s presidential ticket. He came close to winning the vice presidency but was narrowly defeated by George W. Bush after a recount, legal challenges, and a Supreme Court decision. In recent years, Lieberman was involved in No Labels, a centrist third-party movement that aims to offer candidates for president and vice president. Some groups aligned with Democrats oppose this effort, fearing it will benefit Republican nominee Donald Trump.
Lieberman’s connection to his faith was a significant aspect of his life, with his adherence to Jewish tradition viewed as an asset. He believed that his beliefs and values forged connections with people of various religious backgrounds, making him proud to be an American. Lieberman and his wife, Hadassah, raised four children together, reflecting his commitment to family and community. The funeral service in Stamford will be a poignant tribute to Lieberman’s legacy as a dedicated and principled public servant who made a significant impact on American politics.
The service will be attended by a range of political figures, friends, and family members who will share their memories of Lieberman and pay their respects. Lieberman’s career was marked by his willingness to reach across party lines and remain independent in his decision-making. His legacy as a political figure who championed a centrist approach to governance is reflected in his work with No Labels and his advocacy for bipartisanship. The second public memorial to be held at a later date will offer an additional opportunity for individuals to remember and honor Lieberman’s contributions to the nation.
