Former Sen. Jon Kyl, R-Ariz., who served in Congress for nearly three decades, announced Tuesday that he has dementia.
Kyl, 83, said in a statement that he will retreat from public life in the wake of his diagnosis, The Associated Press reported.
“My family and I now head down a path filled with moments of joy and increasing difficulties,” he continued. “I am grateful beyond expression for their love and support, in these coming days as in all the days of my life. Despite this diagnosis, I remain a very fortunate man.”
The former GOP lawmaker served the Grand Canyon State in the Senate from 1995 to 2013, rising to minority whip during his final years in office. Former Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey (R) appointed Kyl to fill the seat vacated by the late Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) in 2018.
Kyl also represented Arizona’s 4th congressional district in the House from 1987 to 1995.