Ted Stevens: 1923-2010
Former Senator Theodore Fulton Stevens and four others died in a plane crash August 9, 2010 in southwest Alaska. Stevens was the Senate’s longest serving Republican, with a political career that spanned from 1961 to 2008. He helped make Alaska the 49th state, and pushed for the construction of bridges, rural water systems, military bases, the trans-Alaskan pipeline, and more in order to improve and lay a foundation for the state. He was considered a great Alaskan, and a formidable political opponent.
Yes, but why are we mentioning a politician here?
Stevens was a fan of Marvel’s green powerhouse, the Incredible Hulk. When he faced his toughest challenges, he donned an Incredible Hulk tie to show he meant business. Former Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist said, “When I see the Hulk tie on Ted Stevens, I know he’s pumped up.” In response, Marvel sent Stevens Hulk paraphernalia and threw him a Hulk-themed party. Stevens often joked about his notorious angry and crotchety demeanor, saying, “I didn’t lose my temper. I know right where it is.”
Stevens is also quoted for describing the internet as a “series of tubes.” Many references have been made to his understanding of the internet, including several made on The Daily Show with John Stewart.
When Stevens left the Senate in 2008, Senator Mitch McConnell said, “I think it is safe to say,
without any fear of contradiction, that no senator in the history of the
United States has ever done more for his state than Senator Ted Stevens.” Condolences to the families of Ted Stevens and the four others who died: Theron “Terry” Smith, William “Bill” Phillips
Sr., Dana Tindall, and Corey Tindall.