Tony Dolan, a prominent figure in American politics, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 76. Dolan was best known for his role as the chief speechwriter for President Ronald Reagan. His death was announced on March 11, 2025, a day that coincided with St. Patrick’s Day, a date of personal significance for the proud Irish Catholic.
Born on July 7, 1948, in Norwalk, Connecticut, Dolan had a remarkable career. He graduated from Yale and became the youngest Pulitzer Prize winner at 29, recognized for his reporting on corruption in Stamford, Connecticut. His fearless journalism earned him death threats but did not deter him from his work. Dolan later transitioned to speechwriting, where he became a key player in Reagan’s administration from 1981 to 1989.
Dolan was part of a talented team of speechwriters, including Peggy Noonan and Peter Robinson. He was known for his unique ability to blend personal conviction with political messaging. His speeches often reflected his strong Catholic faith and moral perspective, especially in defining moments like Reagan’s "evil empire" speech in 1983, where Dolan coined the famous phrase.
In addition to his political work, Dolan had a creative side as a conservative folk singer. He wrote and performed folk songs that critiqued leftist ideologies, showcasing his ability to engage with culture as well as politics.
His contributions to Reagan’s speeches were significant. For example, Dolan was instrumental in crafting the powerful address at the University of Notre Dame shortly after Reagan survived an assassination attempt. He also played a crucial role in the memorable "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!" speech, ensuring that Reagan’s bold language remained intact despite pushback from some White House advisors.
Dolan’s personal life was marked by deep faith and devotion. He made a pilgrimage to Medjugorje in the 1980s, seeking divine intervention for his brother, who was dying of AIDS. This experience reflected his strong Catholic values and his belief in the power of prayer.
Despite his many accomplishments, Dolan remained somewhat private. He had been advising the speechwriting team for Donald Trump, a fact that surprised many of his old friends who were unaware of his involvement. Dolan’s unexpected death came after he developed a kidney infection that led to sepsis.
As friends and colleagues remember Tony Dolan, they reflect on his remarkable contributions to American political discourse and the personal warmth he brought to his relationships. His legacy as a speechwriter, journalist, and devoted Catholic will not be forgotten, and there are calls to publish his memoirs to preserve his insights and experiences for future generations.