Sen. Craig Thomas (R.-Wyo.) passed away today after a battle with acute myeloid leukemia. When I was reporting for Human Events, I had the opportunity to interview Thomas from time to time. He was always a gentleman.

UPDATE — 11:09 p.m.: Don Stewart, communications director to Sen. Mitch McConnell (R.-Ky.), passes along this statement from the minority leader.

Wyoming had no greater advocate, taxpayers had no greater watchdog, and rural America had no greater defender than Craig Thomas. The Senate is a lesser place without Craig here, but the State of Wyoming and our nation are much better places because he was here.

Elaine and I extend our heartfelt sympathies to Craig’s wife, our dear friend Susan. We ask the rest of the Senate family to keep both of them in their prayers.