CNN political commentator Alice Stewart dies

Veteran GOP political adviser and CNN commentator Alice Stewart dies at 58. No foul play suspected in her death.

Alice Stewart, a well-respected political adviser and CNN political commentator with a wealth of experience working on various GOP presidential campaigns, has passed away at the age of 58.

Law enforcement authorities informed CNN that Stewart's body was discovered outdoors in the Bellevue neighborhood in northern Virginia early on Saturday morning. There is no suspicion of foul play, with officers indicating that a medical emergency likely occurred.

Mark Thompson, the CEO of CNN, expressed his deep sorrow in an email to staff on Saturday, describing Stewart as a cherished friend and colleague. He highlighted her political expertise and Emmy Award-winning journalism, noting her kindness and the unique energy she brought to CNN's coverage.

Born on March 11, 1966, in Atlanta, Stewart began her career as a local reporter and producer in Georgia before transitioning to become a news anchor in Little Rock, Arkansas. She later served as the communications director for then-Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee and subsequently for his 2008 presidential campaign.

Stewart also held the role of communications director for the 2012 Republican presidential campaigns of former Minnesota Representative Michele Bachmann and former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum, both of whom she provided commentary for as a former CNN commentator. Most recently, Stewart served as the communications director for Texas Senator Ted Cruz's 2016 GOP campaign.

Joining CNN as a political commentator ahead of the 2016 election, Stewart regularly appeared on air to offer insights on political developments, including a recent appearance on "The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer" just the day before her passing.

Describing her approach as a commentator, Stewart emphasized her perspective as a conservative voice and independent thinker, distinguishing herself from partisan affiliations and emphasizing critical thinking and decency in her analysis.

Stewart was also known for co-hosting the podcast "Hot Mics From Left to Right" with fellow CNN commentator Maria Cardona, who fondly remembered her as a special and loving presence in the often contentious world of politics.

In addition to her media work, Stewart served on the senior advisory committee at Harvard University's Kennedy School Institute of Politics, where she had previously been a fellow. Outside of her professional endeavors, Stewart was an enthusiastic runner, frequently sharing photos from races on social media, including the TCS New York City Marathon and the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile race.

The passing of Alice Stewart is a significant loss to the political and media communities, with colleagues and viewers alike mourning the absence of her insightful commentary and warm personality. This article has been updated with additional information provided by CNN's Kayla Gallagher.