ALEC Mourns the Loss of a Long-time Member and Friend, Senator Bill Raggio

ALEC Mourns the Loss of a Long-time Member and Friend, Senator Bill Raggio

Washington, DC – (February 24, 2012) The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) is deeply saddened by the death of Senator Bill Raggio of Nevada. Raggio was a long-time member of ALEC, and served as National Chairman and then Chairman Emeritus, but above all he was a true friend to the organization and its members.

“Bill Raggio was a dear friend to ALEC and an outstanding leader,” said ALEC National Chairman Dave Frizzell. “He was a lifetime man of the people and had a passion for public service that is rare and admirable. We will truly miss his courage, his presence within our organization, and his wonderful sense of humor.”

ALEC established the William J. Raggio Excellence in Leadership and Outstanding Service Award to recognize members that have shown dedication to the success of ALEC by promoting its Jeffersonian principles, recruitment, and outreach.

ALEC’s National Chairman in 1993, Raggio has been a member of ALEC since the 1970’s—one of ALEC’s longest-serving members—and has served on ALEC’s National Board since 1983. He’s been a statesman and prosecutor. Raggio was Nevada’s longest-serving state senator in history and was first elected to the upper house in 1972.

“The ALEC staff will all miss our dear friend and mentor.  Our hearts and prayers go out to his wife Dale Raggio and the entire Raggio family during this difficult time.  Bill will be missed but not forgotten.  His legacy will live forever,” said Ron Scheberle, Executive Director of ALEC.

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