Former Illinois Governor George Ryan Dies at 91, Remembered for Death Penalty Moratorium and Corruption Conviction

Former Illinois Governor George Ryan, known for his long career in state politics and his controversial legacy, passed away at 91 in his hometown of Kankakee. Ryan began his career as a pharmacist before entering politics, serving as Illinois House Speaker, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, and Governor from 1999 to 2003. He gained international attention for imposing a moratorium on the death penalty in Illinois and commuting the sentences of death row inmates, an act that earned him consideration for a Nobel Peace Prize. However, his legacy was marred by a federal corruption conviction linked to a license-for-bribes scandal during his tenure as Secretary of State, which was indirectly connected to a tragic accident causing the deaths of six children. Despite his legal troubles and prison time, Ryan was remembered by many as a family man and a dealmaker who could work across party lines. Funeral services were held in Kankakee, where he was widely commemorated for both his political impact and personal character.