Don Riegle

In Memoriam: Don Riegle

April 27, 2026

We are deeply saddened at the passing of Senator Don Riegle, former U.S. Congressman, U.S. Senator, president of APCO’s Government Relations Practice and longtime member of APCO’s International Advisory Council. Don’s life was marked by a deep commitment to public service and civic responsibility, and throughout his distinguished career, he served with dedication, integrity, and a strong sense of purpose.  He was also a friend and mentor of our Executive Chairman and Founder, Margery Kraus, for more than 50 years.

Elected to Congress as a Republican in 1966, he joined the Democratic Party in 1973 given his strong conviction against the Vietnam War. Don was incredibly thoughtful and always approached complex challenges with a spirit of bipartisanship and resolve. He was instrumental in building APCO’s government relations practice, leaving a lasting imprint and a standard of excellence that we all strive to maintain.

Beyond his years of commitment and dedication to public service, we will remember Don for his unfailing kindness of spirit, his leadership, his good humor, his passion and for the example he set for everyone who had the opportunity to work alongside him. He made time for everyone, and we were all enriched by our interactions with Senator Riegle.

Our thoughts are with Don’s family, friends and everyone who was touched by his life and service. His legacy will endure at APCO and in all the institutions strengthened by his leadership and the countless people inspired by his commitment to the public good.

Related Articles

Lee Tiedrich

News & Events

Lee Tiedrich, Global Leader on AI, Risk Management and Policy, Joins APCO’s International Advisory Council

April 23, 2026
woman giving presentation

Perspectives

Intentional Visibility: CEO & Executive Presence as a Strategic Asset

March 25, 2026
2 Women in workplace talking

Perspectives

Are We Mistaking Acceleration for Progress? 

February 24, 2026