The United States Capitol Historical Society mourns the passing of the legendary Cokie Roberts. A longtime Capitol Hill correspondent and political commentator, her story was a notable part of Capitol history.
Ms. Roberts was a dear friend and supporter of the U.S. Capitol Historical Society. A longtime member of the organization’s Board of Trustees, she participated in numerous educational programs and events. Most recently, she moderated a panel discussion that featured four women congressional Chiefs of Staff in July 2018. Ms. Roberts held the crowd enraptured and highlighted both how far women have come as Congressional employees and the progress yet to be made.
In 2010 the Society presented its annual Freedom Award to Ms. Roberts, recognizing “her distinguished political commentary, historical writing and educational values which have fostered an “informed patriotism” throughout this nation and promoted greater public understanding and appreciation of representative government.”
“Cokie Roberts will be dearly missed by all who knew her” said Jane L. Campbell, President/CEO of the U.S. Capitol Historical Society. “Her dedication to telling the story of our congress and Capitol – and really the story of our country – was unparalleled. Her legacy of service and civility will forever be a part of our organization. We are all better because she brought light and energy to politics – and so much more.”
Ms. Roberts frequently and freely shared her life’s experiences. Beyond writing eight books on the role of women in American History (several of which became New York Times bestsellers), she often participated in oral history interviews about her congressional childhood and her distinguished career in journalism.
Born to Hale and Lindy Boggs, she practically grew up in the Capitol. Her father rose to the rank of House Majority Leader and served on the Warren Commission, which investigated the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, before his flight from Anchorage to Juneau disappeared in 1972 . Her mother Lindy was elected to fill her father’s seat, and after a distinguished congressional career was appointed Ambassador to the Holy See.
