July 11, 2025
Statement by Fred Ryan, Chairman of the Board of The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute on the Death David Gergen
Simi Valley, California – The Reagan Foundation and Institute mourns the loss of David Gergen, a senior White House communications adviser and respected journalist who President Reagan once publicly thanked for serving with “exceptional creativity, skill and dedication.” Mr. Gergen’s unswerving commitment to open, honest and decent government earned him the trust of presidents from both parties and inspired a generation to believe in the power of principled public service.
Over four decades, Mr. Gergen helped shape pivotal moments in American politics with his steady, bipartisan counsel and deep understanding of public leadership. As a commentator and educator, he brought clarity and integrity to political discourse, bridging the gap between the White House and the American people during some of the nation’s most challenging times.
President Reagan once said of Mr. Gergen, “Your understanding of the modern media, your skills as a writer, and your sensitivity to the needs of the disadvantaged, minorities and women -- all these have been an important part of your contribution to my Presidency.” Those contributions helped not just the Reagan Presidency, but the Nixon, Ford and Clinton presidencies as well. Mr. Gergen’s legacy is one of devoted service to country over partisanship.
Upon accepting his resignation, President Reagan said, “Dave is devoted to honest, open, and decent government. And we shall miss him.” And now, the entire country will miss him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to David Gergen’s wife, Anne, and to their entire family.
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Contact: Melissa Giller