Democrats mourn the death of former Senator Jim Sasser

• Jim Sasser Passes Away at 87
• Ambassador to China Under the Clinton Administration
• Three Terms as Tennessee Senator

On September 10, 2024, Jim Sasser, the last Democrat to represent Tennessee in the U.S. Senate, passed away at the age of 87.

Sasser, known for his distinguished political career and service as U.S. Ambassador to China, died at his home.

The Democratic politician’s residence was located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

He passed away just days before his 88th birthday.

«LOVED THEM IN THAT ORDER»

“He loved his family, the state of Tennessee, his years of service in the U.S. Senate, and also classic cars, and he loved them in that order,” his children said, according to The Tennessean.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1936, Sasser attended public schools in Nashville and later studied at Vanderbilt University, where he graduated in 1958 and earned his law degree in 1961.

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He began his political career in the U.S. Senate in 1976 and was re-elected twice, serving a total of three terms until 1995, according to the Biographical Directory of Congress.

During his time in the Senate, he chaired the Budget Committee, where he played a key role in securing federal funds for his state.

MOURNING JIM SASSER’S DEATH

Congressman Steve Cohen expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of Sasser, whom he described as a “great senator” who left an indelible legacy in Tennessee and national politics.

Cohen highlighted his work as ambassador to China and how his efforts helped bring Chinese pandas to the Memphis Zoo.

The gesture cemented a collaborative relationship between the two countries.

Sasser’s family also paid tribute to his life and career, remembering his love for Tennessee and his devotion to public service.

His children, Gray and Elizabeth Sasser, further described him as a man who believed in the «nobility of public service» and in the power of government to change people’s lives.

After his time in the Senate, Sasser was appointed ambassador to China by President Bill Clinton in 1995, a position he held until 2001.

His time as a diplomat helped strengthen ties between the U.S. and China during a crucial period for bilateral relations.

Rest in peace.

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