Celebrating the Life and Wisdom of David Gergen

From the Desk of: Chris Doughty

We recently lost a truly remarkable figure in American public life: David Gergen, who passed away in July at the age of 83. David dedicated his life to public service, advising four U.S. presidents, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, and Bill Clinton, across political divides and through sweeping changes in our nation’s history. His legacy, both as a counselor in the halls of power and as an educator to future leaders, is profound and enduring.

I had the privilege of meeting David in Boston during the late 1990s, when I was beginning my own career as an advisor. At a dinner following a due diligence meeting, several of us had the rare opportunity to discuss with him the challenges facing our country and to seek his advice on what issues would shape the next generation.

I asked David: As a young advisor, what major issues should I be mindful of over a 30-year career? His answer reflected the clarity and candor that defined his career:

Social Security’s Crossroads: David predicted that Social Security would soon face more payout than intake, pointing toward 2028 as a tipping point, and warned that its reform was too politically polarized for anyone to tackle easily. In the years since, his foresight on Social Security’s looming crisis and the reluctance of leaders to make tough decisions has been remarkably accurate.

Global Trade and Tariffs: His second point concerned the long-term consequences of how America structured its global economic system following World War II. David foresaw that, eventually, adjustments would be unavoidable, and whoever attempted them would confront significant turmoil. Events of recent years, with tariffs rising and global markets destabilized, underscore just how prescient his observations were.

David’s career was marked not just by what he accomplished, but by the humility, integrity, and grounded wisdom he imparted to those who sought his counsel. He showed that true leadership transcends partisanship and that the courage to speak honestly about our toughest challenges is to be celebrated.

As we reflect on his life, I am reminded of how a single meeting can shape the course of a career—or even a life. The lessons I took from him are ones I strive to share: to approach challenges with clarity, listen with humility, and serve with dedication.

Let us celebrate his legacy by living up to the high standards he set and cherishing the wisdom he entrusted to all of us.

With respect and remembrance.