Michael Gerson, George W. Bush’s speechwriter, died on November 17 at the age of 58. He allegedly died in Washington’s MedStar Georgetown University Hospital as a result of complications from his cancer treatment.
Bush paid respect to him, saying:
“Our hearts are saddened by the passing of our good friend, Mike Gerson.” He was a fantastic writer, and I was lucky to have him as my principal speechwriter and valued counsel for many years. His sharp intellect was complemented by his large heart. As a consequence, Mike used the power of the pen to not just write about but also promote excellent policies.”
We are heartbroken to say Michael Gerson, 58, died on Thursday after a long battle with cancer.
For the past 15 years, Michael wrote a twice-weekly column for us.
🧵Here are some selections of his work: https://t.co/QTZEYTFpEP
— Washington Post Opinions (@PostOpinions) November 17, 2022
Room Rater In Memoriam. Michael Gerson has died. He was 58 years old. pic.twitter.com/pWzADD9WUD
— Room Rater (@ratemyskyperoom) November 17, 2022
Michael Gerson was diagnosed with kidney cancer In 2013.
Michael Gerson’s close friend and former colleague Peter Wehner confirmed to The Post that he died from cancer complications. He had a heart attack in December 2004 and had to stop writing speeches. While writing for The Washington Post, he discussed his struggle with depression and remarked in one of his columns:
“I have no doubt that I will return to the cycle of despair, but I now have some self-awareness that cannot be taken away.” When I’m in my right mind, I know I choose hope.”
In 2013, Michael was diagnosed with kidney cancer. He told The Washington Post that it all began with malignant growth in his right kidney. His diagnosis came after a series of testing over a few weeks.
Michael Gerson was a Washington Post op-ed columnist.
Michael Gerson, who was born on May 15, 1964, attended Westminster Christian Academy before enrolling at Georgetown University. He subsequently proceeded to Wheaton College, where he graduated in 1986. Gerson began his career as a senior policy adviser at The Heritage Foundation, a legislative assistant to Indiana Senator Dan Coats, and a speechwriter for Bob Dole’s presidential campaign. Karl Rove recruited him into the Bush campaign in 1999, and he worked as a speechwriter for the campaign. He went on to lead the White House, speechwriting staff.
Michael departed the White House in June 2006 and was replaced by William McGurn, the top editor of The Wall Street Journal. His favorite speech, he claims, was delivered in the National Cathedral only days after the September 11, 2001 attacks. Gerson created expressions such as “the gentle bigotry of low expectations” and “armies of kindness.” After leaving the White House, he worked for Newsweek magazine before becoming a weekly writer for The Washington Post in May 2007, with essays running on Wednesdays and Fridays. Michael Gerson leaves behind his wife, Dawn Gerson, and their two boys. They met in high school and lived in Northern Virginia with their families.
