The French-American Cultural Foundation was saddened to hear about the passing of political satirist P.J. O’Rourke. Originally a Marxist who made his way to a conservative-tinged libertarianism, he had a sense of humor that was respected and enjoyed by people on both sides of the aisle.
Mr. O’Rourke was to have headlined a Lafayette event for the French-American Cultural Foundation, once the pandemic had allowed for fully in person participation. In responding to the F-ACF’s invitation to join the event, he was in true form: “[Lafayette] put enlightenment ideals into action more often and for longer than anyone else, steering through the Charybidis whirlpool of liberty without ever going aground on the Scylla rocks of despotism, and charming such unlikely opposites as Washington and Napoleon.” Mr. O’Rourke’s colorful dash found its way into even routine correspondence. His death comes at a time when the world could use his humor and insights most.
Our condolences go out to his wife Tina, their children, and his family and friends.
Read more: P.J. O’Rourke, Conservative Political Satirist, Dies at 74