Former Congressman Paul Mitchell has died from cancer.
Mitchell announced in June he had been diagnosed with stage IV renal cancer.
In Dec. 2020 the Republican turned Independent announced he was retiring from public life at the end of his term.
He left the Republican Party in 2020 citing that he was upset with the party leadership's tolerance of President Donald Trump's efforts to overturn the results of the election.
His wife Sherry released a statement on the passing of her husband.
Attorney General Danna Nessel released a statement on Mitchell's death Monday afternoon.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of Congressman Mitchell’s passing – a public servant who will be remembered for standing up for our democracy. Paul refused to throw away his integrity to earn political points, and while we may have disagreed on many issues, I will always respect and admire him for his commitment to doing what was right until the very end. My thoughts remain with his loved ones.”
Governor Gretchen Whitmer released the following statement on the passing of Mitchell.
“Congressman Paul Mitchell was a fierce, independent voice for Michiganders. Throughout his tenure in the United States Congress, he led with his values and always spoke out for what he felt was right, even when he had to go against his own party, the president, or conventional political wisdom. After an incredibly successful career in the private sector, Paul entered public life, channeling his passion for people and innovative mind to help his neighbors and community succeed. He embodied values that we all aspire to have—he was independent, witty, and principled. Simply put, he was Paul, a joyful warrior for the people he believed in and for Michigan, the place that he loved. My thoughts are with Paul’s family, his six kids, six grandkids, his staff, and all those who were lucky enough to call him a friend. Paul, we will miss you.”
